Episcleritis Symptoms and Treatments

Episcleritis is an acute inflammatory disorder of the episclera, the thin tissue between the conjunctiva and the white sclera. The episclera houses a thin network of blood vessels.

Episcleritis usually looks much worse than it actually is. Although most cases of episcleritis go away on their own if left alone long enough, about one-third of cases are linked to hidden inflammatory problems present somewhere else in the body.

Symptoms

Episcleritis sometimes produces a section of redness in one or both eyes. Some people may develop a white nodule of tissue in the center of the redness, known as nodular episcleritis. Many people with episcleritis have some associated pain or discomfort, but others have none. Other symptoms that may occur with episcleritis are sensitivity to light (photophobia) and a watery discharge from the eyes.

Causes

In most cases of episcleritis, doctors find it difficult to find out a clear cause. In more severe forms of episcleritis, underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis are usually the culprits.

Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, polyarteritis nodosa, sarcoid, lupus, and ankylosing spondylitis have also been known to manifest their inflammation as episcleritis.

Treatment

Episcleritis may go away on its own within 3 weeks if left untreated. Most doctors treat episcleritis to hasten recovery. Treatment of episcleritis usually involves the following:

• Topical corticosteroids eye drops given several times per day
• Topical lubricant eye drops such as artificial tears
• Cold compresses 3 to 4 times per day
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications given by mouth are prescribed in more severe cases

What You Should Know

In some cases of episcleritis, scleritis may develop, an inflammation of the sclera that can cause intense pain and loss of vision. Contact your doctor if you have symptoms of episcleritis that last for more than 2 weeks or if you have a loss of vision.

Episcleritis vs. Scleritis

Episcleritis occurs in the thin tissue between the conjunctiva and the white sclera. The episclera houses a thin network of blood vessels. The sclera is the tough, white exterior coating of the eyeball.

Although having episcleritis is definitely a cause for concern, scleritis is usually considered a more serious condition and often is more painful and tender to touch. Scleritis can even be a blinding disease and is typically associated more with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Optometrists and ophthalmologists are trained to differentiate between episcleritis and scleritis. Because scleritis is sometimes related to systemic autoimmune conditions, your condition will be co-managed with a primary care doctor, rheumatologist or internal medicine physician.