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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Hello, Has anyone had eye issues with RA. I have very dry eyes. I have had plugs put in my eyes, but did not help. Any helpful solutions?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Upland, CA
June 17
 · 
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What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis? An Overview Read Article...
A myRAteam Member

Oops! I meant to type that Xiidra is an anti-inflammatory.

I have MGD too. Because I am prone to sties and chalazions, he said to use the hot compresses regularly as maintenance to keep the oil ducts open and flowing. I also wash my eyelids with warm water and baby shampoo every morning.

It is amazing to me how many things we have to do to keep our bodies functioning as well as we possibly can. Those tasks and my medication list just keep growing!

June 27
A myRAteam Member

Thank you Melissa!
I also have Meibomian Gland Dysfunction.
Doctor said to put hot compress packs over my eyes and use a gel at night that is oil based, like Refresh P.M.
Patti

June 26
A myRAteam Member

I use Xiidra eye drops. My opthalmologist told me at my appointment today that it is a really good choice for people with dry eyes and RA because it is an inflammatory.

June 25
myRAteam

Dry eyes are actually really common with RA — studies show that between 18% and 90% of people with RA experience them. One myRAteam member shared, "I've had RA for 16 years, but over the past four months I developed eye pain and eye dryness. It felt as if something was always stuck inside my eyes and it would also burn and Show Full Answer

Dry eyes are actually really common with RA — studies show that between 18% and 90% of people with RA experience them. One myRAteam member shared, "I've had RA for 16 years, but over the past four months I developed eye pain and eye dryness. It felt as if something was always stuck inside my eyes and it would also burn and sting."

Since punctal plugs didn't work out, there are several other options worth discussing with an ophthalmologist:

- Over-the-counter artificial tears — lubricating eye drops used throughout the day
- Eye ointments — typically used at night for longer-lasting moisture
- Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion — a prescription drop that helps boost tear production
- Hydroxypropyl cellulose pellets — can reduce how often drops are needed
- Prescription anti-inflammatory medications — such as corticosteroids, NSAIDs, or DMARDs like methotrexate

One myRAteam member found relief sharing, "I am now doing eyedrops multiple times a day and using an eye gel at night. My eyes are starting to feel a little better."

It's really worth looping in both your rheumatologist and an ophthalmologist together, as managing RA inflammation overall can also help improve eye symptoms. Don't ignore even mild symptoms — early treatment helps prevent complications.

June 17

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