What is non-infectious anterior uveitis?
It is an autoimmune disease that can affect people of all ages. The chronic inflammatory process that occurs in the eye can cause redness, pain, and blurred vision. It is essential to undergo appropriate treatment to minimize flare-ups and preserve vision. But what role does nutrition play in all of this?
What are the characteristics of non-infectious anterior uveitis?
Non-infectious anterior uveitis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks the tissues of the eye, leading to inflammation and redness. This disease affects the anterior segment of the eye and can affect one or both eyes, being more common in young and middle-aged adults.
Symptoms include eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and, in severe cases, decreased vision. The disease can have a chronic course with periods of exacerbation and remission.
The treatment of non-infectious anterior uveitis aims to limit the inflammatory process and minimize the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Treatments include corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and immunosuppressants, and in severe cases, the injection of antibodies targeting inflammatory proteins such as interleukin-6.
Nutrition and non-infectious anterior uveitis
It is essential to undergo appropriate treatment to minimize flare-ups and preserve vision. But what role does nutrition play in all of this?
A healthy and balanced diet can be beneficial for people with non-infectious anterior uveitis. Zinc, copper, and selenium are important for immune system function and eye health. Manganese has also been shown to help protect ocular tissue cells from oxidative damage.
Furthermore, the relationship between dietary omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and the immune-inflammatory response may be important in non-infectious anterior uveitis. Omega-6s are known to promote inflammation, while omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties.
To reduce inflammation, it is recommended to decrease the intake of omega-6, found in foods such as meat and animal fat, and increase the intake of omega-3, found in foods such as fish, chia seeds, and nuts. In particular, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, is necessary for eye and brain health, and a daily intake of 250 mg is recommended.
