Can ankylosing spondylitis affect the eyes?

In general, whether ankylosing spondylitis affects the eyes depends on the disease status. During active phases of the disease, eye involvement is more likely and may lead to ocular complications; during stable phases, the risk of eye involvement significantly decreases. The detailed analysis is as follows:

During active disease phases, abnormal immune activation can easily trigger ocular complications, with uveitis being the most common. Patients may experience symptoms such as redness, eye pain, photophobia, and blurred vision. Without timely intervention, this may lead to serious complications including iris adhesions and cataracts, impairing visual function. These ocular manifestations often occur acutely and closely correlate with fluctuations in spinal symptoms.

When the disease is in a stable phase, inflammation is effectively controlled and immune function remains relatively balanced, greatly reducing the likelihood of ocular involvement. At this stage, patients should adhere to standardized treatment to maintain disease stability and avoid relapse due to self-discontinuation or dose reduction of medications, which could increase the risk of eye complications.

Daily care should focus on multiple aspects: strictly following medical advice for medication to control the underlying condition and prevent disease flares. Develop healthy eye-use habits, avoid prolonged eye strain, and maintain good ocular hygiene. Regular eye examinations are essential, and any eye discomfort should prompt immediate medical evaluation.