Episcleritis
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
- A diagram of the eye
- Definitions and descriptions of the parts of the eye
- A concise description of the human retina
- Definitions of parts of the retina
- Clinical and surgical procedures re. eyes and human visual system
For further information see also our pages of books about ophthalmology.
The following books may also be of interest:
