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Vision Problems

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Elk City, OK

I seem to be having problems with my vision lately. Are vision problems common with RA? Mainly blurred vision?

February 8, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members strongly affirmed that vision problems are common with rheumatoid arthritis, with many sharing their experiences of blurred vision and... Read more

Members strongly affirmed that vision problems are common with rheumatoid arthritis, with many sharing their experiences of blurred vision and dry eyes, often linked to Sjögren's syndrome, medications like Plaquenil, or the disease itself causing inflammation. Several members recommended seeing an ophthalmologist for proper evaluation and shared practical solutions including prescription eye drops like Restasis or Xiidra, preservative-free lubricating drops like Systane, medications like Evoxac to increase tear production, and regular eye monitoring especially when taking Plaquenil. A recurring theme was the importance of telling eye doctors about RA and all medications, advocating for specialist care when symptoms persist, and understanding that while vision changes can be frustrating and sometimes permanent, many treatments exist to manage dry eyes and protect long-term eye health.

A myRAteam Member

I started Plaquenil and noticed blurred vision. I went to my eye doctor and he asked if it made it better if my eyes teared. Once he mentioned it, I realized it did so he gave me some eye drops and said that dry eyes is normal with RA. It definitely helps. I will say that it was much worse while I was on Plaquenil and has improved in the 3 months since I've stopped taking it.

February 16, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Hi my darling, my eyes where perfect to I started with R.A my optician says the disease cause eye problems that why when I go I have to always tell them what I have and which tablets I am taking, every year my eyes are getting worse. So as your optician 🐝

February 10, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Dry eyes actually are common in the general population, esp. in dry settings or weather, but people with RA are at increased risk for another cause of eye problems: an autoimmune disease called Sjögren's syndrome. (Autoimmune conditions often travel together. Serena Williams has Sjogrens, although I'm not aware of any other autoimmunity.) Sjögren's is systemic disease, meaning it can affect multiple body systems, but the most common symptoms are dry eyes and dry mouth. The dry eyes can be quite uncomfortable. My vision was compromised. An ophthamologist can prescribe something like Restasis or Xiidra. Both contain immune suppressants to control symptoms. They need to be taken over time; it can take up to 2 to 6 weeks for the drops to start working. Occasionally prednisone drops will be given short-term to get inflammation under control. For routine symptomatic relief, good quality lubricating drops like systane can be helpful. They're viscous and perservative-free. They can be used several times per day. Decongestant drops for redness and itching like cvs brand or even visine, not so much.

Plaquenil can affect vision for some people. I did a trial of the drug. I was driving at night and noticed that all of the street lights appeared to have halos. It was like being surrounded by hundreds of little Jesuses. I stopped the med - it didn't help anyway.

March 12, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Has your doctor put you on Restasis eye drops? I am on those as well as Evoxac or Cevimeline ( generic ), which helps produce saliva and artificial tears. Depending on how bad your condition is will depend how the dosage and how many times a day you will need to take it. I am on it Evoxac (generic version) 30mg tabs, take 2, three times daily. The only drawback is, the lunch time dosage is followed up my nap time, thanks Norco, so I usually end up having drooling on my pillow. No worries though, I secretly try and grab my hubbies pillow and not mine! LOL! (jk)

March 2, 2016
A myRAteam Member

I should say, off and on blurred vision.

February 11, 2016

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