Psoriasis is often described as a skin condition, but its effects can extend far beyond the skin. As a chronic inflammatory and immune-mediated disease, psoriasis may also affect the joints, cardiovascular system, and the eyes.
Although eye involvement is less common than skin or joint symptoms, it can be serious. In some cases, eye complications linked to psoriasis may lead to permanent vision damage if they are not recognized and treated early.
Understanding how psoriasis can affect eyesight is important for long-term health and quality of life.
How psoriasis can affect the eyes
Eye problems related to psoriasis can occur in two main ways.
In some people, symptoms are linked to psoriasis flare-ups affecting the skin around the eyes. In others, inflammation develops inside the eye itself, even when there are no visible skin lesions near the eyes.
Psoriasis-related eye conditions are relatively uncommon, but when they do occur, they often require careful medical attention and coordination between specialists.
Psoriasis around the eyes and eyelids
When psoriasis affects the eyelids or skin surrounding the eyes, symptoms can be particularly uncomfortable and difficult to manage.
Dryness and scaling may cause the eyelids to turn slightly inward or outward. This can expose the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, to excessive dryness or friction from eyelashes. Over time, this irritation may damage the cornea and impair vision.
In these situations, eye care must be gentle and medically supervised.
The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends the following supportive measures:
gently washing the eyelids and lashes with a mixture of water and baby shampoo
using over-the-counter eyelid cleansers to remove stubborn scales
applying prescription topical medications around the eyes only under medical supervision
having regular intraocular pressure testing (IOP) performed by an ophthalmologist to monitor for side effects
Dermatologists may sometimes prescribe low-potency corticosteroids for short-term use on the eyelids. While these can reduce inflammation, prolonged use near the eyes increases the risk of cataracts and glaucoma. For this reason, steroid use should always follow strict medical guidance and be limited in duration.
Uveitis and iritis
One of the most important eye conditions associated with psoriasis is uveitis.
Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. The uvea includes the iris (the colored part of the eye), the ciliary body (which produces the fluid inside the eye), and the choroid (a layer of blood vessels that supplies the retina).
When inflammation affects the front part of the uvea, it is called iritis or anterior uveitis.
Uveitis often develops as a complication of systemic inflammatory diseases such as psoriatic arthritis, lupus, or other autoimmune conditions. In these cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy eye tissue.
Symptoms of uveitis
Symptoms of uveitis can vary, but common warning signs include:
eye redness
sensitivity to light
blurred or reduced vision
floaters appearing in the field of vision
eye pain or discomfort
These symptoms should never be ignored. Untreated uveitis can lead to serious complications, including permanent vision loss.
Because of the strong link between psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and uveitis, ophthalmologists often work closely with dermatologists, rheumatologists, and primary care physicians to create an appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment of psoriasis-related eye inflammation
In many cases, uveitis responds well to corticosteroid eye drops prescribed by an ophthalmologist. These drops help reduce inflammation and protect vision when used correctly.
If uveitis becomes recurrent or severe, systemic medications that suppress immune activity may be required to address the underlying cause. These treatments aim to control inflammation throughout the body, not just in the eyes.
When uveitis occurs alongside other eye conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts, additional treatment or surgery may be necessary.
People with psoriasis-associated uveitis are more likely to experience repeated episodes than those without autoimmune disease. For some individuals, connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical coping strategies.
When to seek medical attention
Anyone with psoriasis should seek prompt medical evaluation if they experience eye pain, vision changes, redness, or light sensitivity.
Regular eye examinations are especially important for people with psoriatic arthritis or long-standing psoriasis, even if no eye symptoms are present.
Early detection and coordinated care can help protect eyesight and prevent long-term complications.
