The eye is often the first place an autoimmune story begins, yet many people spend years dismissed by the medical system before getting an answer. In this episode, host Dr. Rupa Wong sits down with board-certified rheumatologist Dr. Hillary Norton to bridge the gap between vision health and systemic disease. Dr. Norton shares her unique perspective as both a specialist and a patient living with ankylosing spondylitis, explaining why that stubborn "dry eye" or sudden light sensitivity might actually be a signal from your immune system. It’s an essential conversation about why listening to your body - and finding a doctor who listens back - is the ultimate game-changer for long-term health.

What You’ll Learn:

The surprising "red flag" symptoms in the eye that often lead to a rheumatologist’s doorstep before a patient even feels joint pain.

Why women are frequently dismissed with labels like "anxiety" or "depression" while a systemic condition is actually unfolding.

The distinction between standard age-related dryness and the "inflammatory fatigue" that signals your immune system has lost its tolerance.

How modern immunomodulators and biologics are revolutionizing the treatment of uveitis and preventing permanent vision loss.

The specific "night pain" and "morning stiffness" markers that differentiate mechanical wear-and-tear from an autoimmune disease flare.

Guest Resources:

Instagram: @hillarynortonmd

Website: https://inspiresantafe.com/

Resources:

Newsletter: https://www.drrupawong.com/sign-up

Instagram: @drrupawong

Youtube Channel: Dr Rupa Wong

Interested in becoming a patient?: Honolulu Eye Clinic

Earn FREE CE Credit: Learn at Pinnacle App

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