What is Scleritis and How Does it Affect the Eyes?

Scleritis is an inflammation of the sclera, the white outer wall of the eye. It is a serious eye condition that requires medical treatment.

Symptoms of Scleritis

Symptoms of scleritis most often include:

• blurry vision
• severe eye pain and tenderness
• red patches on the white of the eye
• extreme light sensitivity
• tearing of the eye

There is also a rare form of this disease that causes no eye pain or redness.

How to Treat Scleritis

Scleritis is linked to diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Wegener’s disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Treatment options include:

• corticosteroid eye drops or pills
• nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs
• certain anti-cancer drugs (immune suppressants)
• surgery (in some instances)

If not treated, scleritis can cause blindness.

Diagnosing Scleritis

Diagnosis of scleritis is made by an Eye M.D. It’s typically best detected by examining the sclera in daylight.

If you suspect you might have scleritis and you live in central New Jersey, Atlantic Medical Eye Care can help. Contact us to set up an eye exam and well determine the best course of action for you.