Eye doctors may refer to inflammation of the iris and other internal eye structures as "arthritis of the eye" or "eye arthritis." In some people, this may occur frequently, particularly people who have rheumatoid arthritis. To prevent recurring episodes, some people may consider using chondroitin and glucosamine, supplements often used by arthritis sufferers. However, these supplements may not have any effect on eye arthritis, but, in theory, they may offer some relief from rheumatoid arthritis.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin both play a role in building cartilage, the cushion between your joints. People who suffer from osteoarthritis often take these supplements, and this often helps relieve pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints. Foods do not contain chondroitin and glucosamine, but your doctor may recommend you take a supplement if necessary.
Uveitis
Uveitis is a condition that affects the internal structures in your eye, such as your iris and your choroid, a middle layer of tissue between the back lining of your eye and the outer tissues of your eye. This condition, often called "eye arthritis," can stem from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, but it can also occur in otherwise healthy individuals. Symptoms include redness, light sensitivity, pain and vision changes. Glucosamine and chondroitin will not treat uveitis. Your doctor will most likely prescribe a steroid eye drop or other medication to help with your inflammation.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that often causes inflammation in the joints of your hands and feet, but this condition may affect other joints as well. This condition may cause deformities in the joints, and this results from the inflammation that erodes bones in the joint. Rheumatoid arthritis may also increase your risk of certain eye conditions. In addition to uveitis, you may experience inflammation in other eye structures, such as the white of the eye. You also have an increased risk for dry eye, cataracts and glaucoma.
Considerations
You may wish to talk with your doctor about using chondroitin and glucosamine for rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies indicate the potential for a reduction in symptoms when using glucosamine, and your doctor can help you determine if these supplements may help you. If you have eye symptoms of uveitis or any other eye changes, contact your doctor for an evaluation. She will not likely prescribe glucosamine and chondroitin for your eyes, but you may wish to discuss the ways these supplements could decrease your risk for a flare-up of rheumatoid arthritis, and, subsequently, any associated eye conditions.
References
- MedlinePlus: Uveitis: July 2010
- MayoClinic.com: Rheumatoid Arthritis: Can rheumatoid Arthritis Affect the Eyes?: November 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Chondroitin
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Glucosamine
- "Rheumatology International"; Effects of Glucosamine Administration on Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis"; H. Nakamura, et al.; January 2007
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