Scleritis
Scleritis leads to issues that are hard to ignore, from sharp eye pain to vision changes. Explore what causes scleritis, its symptoms, and treatment options to understand its impact on eye health and how to address it.
What Is Scleritis?
Scleritis is sometimes mistaken for acute conjunctivitis (severe pink eye) because both conditions cause eye redness. However, unlike pink eye, which inflames the thin, translucent layer covering the white of the eye and the inner eyelid (the conjunctiva), scleritis directly affects the sclera—the white part of the eye.
This inflammation goes deeper, causing sharp, throbbing pain that can worsen with eye movement. Left untreated, scleritis can cause serious, lasting eye damage and even lead to vision loss. It’s often linked to autoimmune diseases but can also develop from infections, injuries, or, in rare cases, a fungal infection.
Scleritis comes in two main types—anterior and posterior—each impacting different areas of the sclera.
Anterior Scleritis
This more common type affects the front, visible part of the sclera, and includes three subtypes:
- Diffuse Anterior Scleritis: Widespread inflammation across the sclera, causing redness and discomfort
- Nodular Anterior Scleritis: Characterized by painful red nodules on the sclera
- Necrotizing Anterior Scleritis: The most severe form, with tissue damage that can threaten vision and, in some cases, lead to eye loss
Posterior Scleritis
Less common and harder to diagnose, posterior scleritis affects the back of the sclera, deep within the eye. Symptoms include eye pain and tenderness, and it can lead to severe complications like retinal detachment and glaucoma.
Some people may experience both types at once, increasing their risks. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent complications and protect vision.
Causes
Scleritis often develops from an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Some leading causes include:
- Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Eye infections—bacterial, viral, or fungal
- Trauma or injury to the eye, often sparking inflammation
- Vascular diseases (like vasculitis) affecting blood vessels
- Certain medications for bone health, which sometimes trigger eye inflammation
Symptoms
Here’s what scleritis is like for those affected:
- Severe, aching eye pain that worsens with movement
- Red, swollen sclera with possible bumps or nodules
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Blurred vision and unexplained tearing
Diagnosis
Diagnosing scleritis starts with a thorough eye exam. Using a slit lamp microscope, an eye doctor can get a close look at both the front and back of your eye. Sometimes, the doctor might coordinate with other specialists to run blood tests, X-rays, or other screenings, especially if they suspect an autoimmune issue. If there’s an infection involved, they may sample eye discharge or even suggest a biopsy for further analysis.
Treatment Options
Treatment for scleritis aims to manage inflammation and relieve pain. For mild cases, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can work. But for more severe cases, doctors may recommend:
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, taken orally to combat inflammation
- Immune-suppressing drugs if it’s tied to autoimmune issues
- Antibiotics, antifungals, or antivirals for cases linked to infection
- Scleral graft surgery to reinforce weakened areas of the sclera
Frequently Asked Questions
Is scleritis contagious?
How long does scleritis take to heal?
Who is most at risk?
For more information or to find an eye care provider, visit your nearest Visionworks location and schedule an eye exam today.
