Hello,
I am an optometrist as a profession. I did my residency in ocular disease in the VA system. I have a few broad comments. Uvitis or Iritis are both eye inflammation that can come with IBD. They can cause a LOT of damage to the eye and should be treated promptly. A true uveitis or iritis cannot be treated with over the counter artificial tears (systane, optive, genteal etc.) Lotemax is a mid level steroid, I question if it would be used for active inflammation, I wouldn't prescribe it to any of my patients. Usually Pred-Forte or Prednisolone Acetate would be used in these situations, every hour in the affected eye. For extreme situations there is Durezol. There is some thought that Vitamin D levels may be low in this population, if you have trouble with Uvitis or Iritis it is worth asking for a Vit D level in your next bloodwork. Remember that even topical steroids have consequences and should only be taken under the care of a professional.
For chronic Dry Eye that is not better with artificial tears, I would ask your eye doctor about using a short dose of a low or mid level steroid (lotemax, dexamethasone etc.) and follow it up with Restasis (cyclosporine). Restasis is a good drug, but usually takes at least 3 months to work. Dry eye is often secondary to active inflammation and Restasis helps with this inflammation.
I hope this helps clear up some of the unknowns, bottom line is that we are all at risk and if a red eye presents make sure that you see someone ASAP.