Red Eye Conditions

Question 1

Episcleritis (what it is, causes, key symptoms, treatment/referral)

Answer 1

Inflammation of the sclera (white part)
Sometimes associated with autoimmune conditions but mostly unknown cause
Redness of the eye, mild soreness, no pain
Self-limiting: 1-2 weeks
Referral: recurrent, pain, systemic symptoms

Question 2

Scleritis: (what it is, causes, key symptoms, treatment/referral)

Answer 2

Deeper inflammation of the sclera
Associated with autoimmune disease (RA)
Pain, tenderness, photosensitivity
Referral: all cases, managed long term by specialists

Question 3

Keratitis: (what it is, causes, key symptoms, treatment/referral)

Answer 3

Inflammation of the cornea e.g corneal ulcer
Contact lens, trauma (fingernails), infections
Severe pain, vision changes, photophobia, discharge
Referral: all cases, risk of loss of vision

Question 4

Keratitis - lifestyle (3)

Answer 4

Contact lens hygiene:
Wash hands when inserting and removing
Keep lenses in sterile solution within case
Don’t use longer than recommended

Question 5

Uveitis: (what it is, causes, key symptoms, treatment/referral)

Answer 5

Inflammation of the uveal tract
Infection, autoimmune, trauma
Floaters, redness, pain, watery, photophobia, pupil changes
Referral: all, requires corticosteroid drops

Question 6

Subconjunctival haemorrhage

Answer 6

Burst blood vessel
Straining, blood thinners
Extensive redness in the eye, no pain or other symptoms
Self-limiting: 10-14 days
Referral: recurrent