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

Some eye conditions that can develop include:

* Dry eyes. A sickness called Sjogren's disease is a widespread 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 symptoms include redness, pain and tearing of the eye.

* Inflammation of the membrane protecting the white part of the eye. The symptoms of this ailment (episcleritis), are a red eye, sometimes go with tearing and irritation. This ailment requires forceful treatment.

* Cataracts. Steroid treatment is usually the root cause of rheumatoid arthritis in arthritis sufferers. 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 rare. It is typically caused by anti-malarial treatment in rheumatoid patients. Patients who obtain hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine for their rheumatoid arthritis may be at risk for maculopathy and should be monitored by an eye doctor every six months.

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