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Besides the joint swelling and pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can occur due to injury to the skin and nerves. Some of the issues that may occur in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis include damage to the heart and lungs and issues with the eyes.

Some eye ailments that can develop include:

* Dry eyes. A condition called Sjogren’s disease is a popular condition that coexists with rheumatoid arthritis. Dry eyes often show that this ailment may be present.

* Inflammation of the inner eye. This ailment (uveitis) can lead to blindness if disregarded. The indicators include redness, pain and tearing of the eye.

* Inflammation of the membrane shielding the white portion of the eye. The indicators of this ailment (episcleritis), are a red eye, sometimes go together with tearing and irritation. This ailment requires aggressive treatment.

* Cataracts. Steroid therapy is usually the root cause of arthritis in arthritis patients. It is best to reduce steroid doses whenpossible to help prevent this condition. Cataracts in patients with rheumatoid arthritis are treated just as they would be in any other patient.

* Maculopathy. This ailment is now unusual. It is usually caused by anti-malarial treatment in rheumatoid patients. Patients who acquire hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine for their rheumatoid arthritis may be at risk for maculopathy and should be seen by an eye doctor every six months.

Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers who suffer from dry eyes, pain or redness of the eyes, extreme tearing, blurred vision or sensitivity to light should be appraised by an ophthalmologist immediately. It is also recommended that the patient remain in consultation with a rheumatologist. For more information on arthritis hand pain visit here.