Episcleritis is a disease of the eye that is associated with a rapid onset of redness of the eye usually associated with mild pain. This can occur in one or both eyes. Usually it occurs in younger adults and oftentimes there can be a history of repeated episodes. The redness of the eye can occur in just a part of the eye or less commonly it can affect the entire eye. The vision is normal in this condition.

The most common cause of episcleritis is unknown. It is associated with collagen vascular diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosis. Other causes are syphilis, herpes zoster virus, lyme disease, Crohn’s disease and gout.

Treatment:

Mild cases of episcleritis can be treated with Artificial Tears and a mild antihistamine drop. In more moderate to severe cases Artificial Tears plus steroid drops are used. In more severe cases then more potent anti-inflammatory medications are used. Most patients respond very well to the above treatments. However, patients are advised that the epscleritis may recur in the same or the other eye.