About Scleritis
Q: What is scleritis?
A: Scleritis is inflammation of the sclera, the white part of the eye. It is often linked to autoimmune or inflammatory diseases but can also result from infections or injury. Scleritis can be serious and may lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Q: What are the types of scleritis?
- Anterior scleritis: The most common form, affecting the front of the eye.
- Nodular scleritis: A type of anterior scleritis with bumps on the eye's surface.
- Necrotizing scleritis: A severe form that can destroy scleral tissue.
- Posterior scleritis: A rarer and more difficult-to-diagnose form affecting the back of the eye.
Q: What are the symptoms of scleritis?
- Common symptoms: Severe eye redness and intense pain, which may extend to the face.
- Anterior scleritis symptoms: Pain worsening with eye movement, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and excessive tearing.
- Posterior scleritis symptoms: Pain with eye movement, double vision, headaches, and eye irritation.
Q: What causes scleritis?
Scleritis can be caused by infections, viruses, trauma, or autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, such as:
- Lupus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sjogren's syndrome
- Wegener's disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Q: How is scleritis diagnosed?
Dr. Michelle Tarver will conduct a thorough eye exam, review your medical history, and may perform lab tests on blood or tissue samples. If no autoimmune history is present, she may refer you to a rheumatologist for further testing.
Q: How is scleritis treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
- Autoimmune-related scleritis: Referral to a specialist for managing the primary condition, with treatments like NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressive drugs.
- Infectious scleritis: Antibiotics or antifungal medications.
- Severe cases: Scleral grafts or reparative surgery may be necessary.
Q: What is the prognosis for scleritis?
If treated early, scleritis can often be managed successfully. However, untreated scleritis can cause permanent vision loss. Seeking prompt treatment from an ophthalmologist, like Dr. Tarver, is critical.
Q: What do patients say about Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons?
"I had a thorough exam, and the staff was professional. Dr. Siddiqui addressed all my concerns about my cataract surgery." – B.A. / Google
Reviews
See a Scleritis Specialist
Dr. Michelle Tarver has devoted her career to treating patients with ocular inflammation, such as scleritis. If you are experiencing abnormal eye pain and redness, we urge you to make an appointment with Dr. Tarver right away to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Scleritis is a very serious condition that can permanently affect your vision if not treated early on, but Dr. Tarver at Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons can help.
