Episcleritis is inflammation of the episclera
of the eye,
which is the part of the eye between the conjunctiva
and the sclera.
Initial symptoms may include the eye (or eyes) appearing to be red, and
feeling tender and sore. Unlike conjunctivitis, episcleritis
doesn't involve a discharge (release of fluid), though the eye (or eyes)
may water. Symptoms may be accompanied by increased sensitivity to bright
light.
There are two forms of episcleritis:
- Simple episcleritis - which may involve intermittent
instances of inflammation occuring every couple of months for about
1-2 weeks at a time.
- Nodular episcleritis - may involve more prolonged
periods of inflammation that are more painful than simple episcleritis.
Nodular episcleritis is sometimes associated with underlying
medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment is not always necessary but when treated the first steps may
concentrate on soothing the soreness and reducing inflammation. In rarer
severe cases, treatment may involve use of anti-inflammatory drugs.
More about Ophthalmology: This section includes short definitions
of many diseases, disorders, and conditions of the eyes and visual system.
For definitions of other terms in this category, choose from the list
to the left (but note that this is not a complete/exhaustive list).
Other related pages include the diagram
of the eye, and definitions
of parts of the eye, a description
of the human retina, and definitions
of parts of the retina, and the section of short definitions
of clinical and surgical procedures re. eyes and human visual system.
For further information see also our section of Books
about Ophthalmology. |
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This Section
is about
Diseases
and Disorders of the Eyes and Visual System.
To read about other diseases, disorders, or conditions of the eye and
human visual system, use the links on the left-side of this page.
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