Should We Worry About Lyme Disease Affecting the Eyes?
Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is primarily known for affecting joints, the nervous system, and skin, but it can also impact the eyes. Though rare, ocular Lyme disease can lead to serious complications like optic neuritis, uveitis, and keratitis, which may cause blurred vision, pain, light sensitivity, and even vision loss if left untreated. Early detection and treatment of Lyme disease are crucial to prevent these complications. If you’ve been diagnosed with Lyme or experience sudden eye symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.
How Does Lyme Disease Affect the Eyes?
Lyme disease can affect the eyes at various stages, leading to different types of ocular complications. Early in the disease, patients may experience conjunctivitis, causing redness and irritation. As Lyme progresses, more serious conditions can emerge, such as:
Uveitis: Inflammation of the eye’s middle layer, leading to pain, redness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. If left untreated, uveitis can cause permanent damage.
Optic Neuritis: This involves inflammation of the optic nerve, potentially leading to temporary or permanent vision loss. Optic neuritis can cause blurred vision, pain behind the eye, and color vision issues.
Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea that may cause severe discomfort, light sensitivity, and distorted vision.
Additionally, Lyme disease can cause cranial nerve palsy, affecting eye movement and leading to double vision or droopy eyelids (ptosis).
Why This Happens
The bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease, can spread through the bloodstream and enter various tissues, including the eyes. As the infection spreads, it triggers inflammation in different parts of the eye, leading to these symptoms. The immune response to the infection can exacerbate inflammation, making eye-related complications more likely as the disease progresses.