Scleritis

What Is Scleritis?

Scleritis is a serious inflammatory condition affecting the sclera—the tough, white outer layer of the eye. It often presents with deep, piercing pain that worsens with eye movement and may be accompanied by redness, tenderness, and reduced vision. Unlike common eye irritations, scleritis can lead to permanent tissue damage and vision loss if not treated promptly. It is frequently associated with autoimmune disorders, infections, or trauma, and requires thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause. Early treatment with anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroids, or targeted therapies is essential to control inflammation and protect long-term eye health.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Scleritis?

Scleritis causes deep, persistent discomfort and noticeable changes in the appearance of the eye. You may need immediate evaluation if you experience any of the following:

Intense Eye Redness: The sclera becomes bright red or violaceous, often worsening over time.
Severe Eye Pain: A deep, penetrating pain that may radiate to the forehead, brow, or jaw — often strong enough to disturb sleep.
Watering or Excessive Tearing: Persistent tearing without relief, accompanied by irritation or heaviness.
Light Sensitivity (Photophobia): Bright light becomes uncomfortable, causing squinting or eye strain even indoors.

Dr. Yatri Pandya Bhavsar

MS Ophthalmology, FCORS

Specialist in Cornea Transplant, Ocular Surface, Cataract, and Refractive Surgeries, performed with advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment.

Professional Experience

Dr. Nagpal’s Retina Foundation (Shahibaug)

Shivyaa Superspecialty Hospital (Gota)

Dr. Nagpal’s Centre for Cornea, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad

GMERS Medical College & Sola Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad

Different Types of Scleritis

Anterior Scleritis

The most common form, affecting the front portion of the sclera. It may present as diffuse inflammation across the sclera or as localized nodules. Symptoms include severe pain, redness, and surface tenderness. Early detection is essential to prevent tissue damage and vision complications.

Posterior Scleritis

A less common type involving inflammation at the back of the sclera. Because it is deeper, symptoms may be harder to identify and often mimic other retinal or orbital conditions. Patients may experience deep pain, reduced vision, or swelling inside the eye. Detailed imaging is usually required for diagnosis.

Diffuse Scleritis

A widespread inflammatory pattern covering large areas of the sclera. It is the most frequently observed form of anterior scleritis. Symptoms include intense redness and pain, but with timely treatment, long-term outcomes are generally favorable.

Nodular Scleritis

Characterized by one or more firm, tender nodules on the sclera. These nodules are visibly elevated and extremely painful on touch or movement. Without treatment, inflammation may progress, causing persistent discomfort and deeper tissue involvement.

Necrotizing Scleritis

The most severe and potentially vision-threatening form, causing progressive tissue destruction. It may occur with or without pain and is often associated with systemic autoimmune disease. In advanced cases, thinning or perforation of the sclera can lead to severe complications, requiring urgent and aggressive management.

What Causes Scleritis?

Your Scleritis Care Journey: What to Expect at Shivyaa Hospital

How Scleritis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing scleritis requires a detailed clinical evaluation supported by advanced imaging. Our goal is to identify the exact type, severity, and underlying cause to ensure timely treatment.

Comprehensive Eye Examination: Your specialist examines the sclera, cornea, and ocular structures using a slit-lamp microscope to detect inflammation, tenderness, and tissue changes.
Posterior Scleritis Imaging: If deeper inflammation is suspected, tests such as ocular ultrasound or CT scan help visualize the back portion of the sclera and surrounding tissues.
Infection Screening: When infection is suspected, a sample of eye discharge may be collected for laboratory testing. Rarely, a biopsy is required for precise diagnosis.

Management & Treatment

Treatment aims to control inflammation, relieve pain, prevent scleral damage, and address any underlying systemic disease contributing to scleritis.

Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Mild cases may respond to NSAIDs, while most patients require systemic corticosteroids such as prednisone for rapid and effective inflammation control.
Advanced Steroid Therapy: For recurrent flare-ups or severe inflammation, intravenous corticosteroids may be administered to stabilize the condition quickly.
Treating Infectious Scleritis: If the cause is bacterial, fungal, or viral, targeted antibiotics, antifungals, or antivirals are prescribed to eliminate the infection and protect the sclera.
Immunosuppressive Medications: Severe or necrotizing scleritis may require collaboration with a rheumatologist to prescribe medications like methotrexate, mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, or biologic agents such as rituximab or adalimumab.
Scleral Patching or Grafts: In advanced cases with tissue thinning or risk of perforation, scleral grafts or patching procedures reinforce weak areas and prevent structural complications.

Happy with opthalmologist as found good diagnosis. And good explanation to us. My family is happy with results.

The experience was great! The staff and the doctor were really helpful and kind!

મારી સાસુમાને આંખમાં તકલીફ થઈ હતી. જેની ટ્રીટમેન્ટ સારી રીતે મળી અને અત્યારે આંખમાં ખૂબ જ સારું છે. ડોક્ટર યાત્રીબેન ભાવસાર નું કામકાજ સરસ છે.

Dr. Yatri is very kind. She explained everything in detail and treated my father perfectly. Highly recommended for all eye problems.

Ham madam ke pass treatment ke liye Aaye The madam ne bahut acchi treatment Di aur madam ka nature aur Hospital ka environment bahut achcha hai madam ne treatment bahut acche se ki

When to Seek Medical Attention for Eye Problems

Immediately consult ophthalmology specialists in case of the following warning signs because it could be indicative of a severe eye condition that has to be addressed immediately:

Severe Pain

Persistent or severe eye pain, not relieved by rest or over-the-counter eye drops.

Vision Loss

Partial or complete sudden vision loss may indicate retinal, optic nerve, or vascular emergencies.

Redness & Swelling

Bright redness, swelling, or pus-like discharge may signal serious infection or inflammatory eye condition.

Eye Trauma

New flashes, floaters, or blind spots in vision may indicate retinal detachment or serious damage.

Flashes & Floaters

Sudden double vision, numbness, or weakness may suggest neurological, muscular, or vascular eye-related issues.

Why Choose Shivyaa Hospital for Expert Care?

Advanced Diagnostic Technologies

State-of-the-art imaging and interactive diagnostic equipment allow accurate assessment of eyes, bones, joints, or muscles. Precise diagnosis ensures effective treatment and accelerates recovery.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Individualized care plans are designed based on each patient’s symptoms and root causes. This guarantees optimal treatment for eye conditions, fractures, arthritis, or joint injuries.

24/7 Emergency Services

Round-the-clock emergency care provides immediate attention for acute eye diseases, trauma, fractures, or joint injuries, preventing complications and promoting faster recovery.

Expertise in Patient Care

Skilled specialists enhance treatment success rates for complex eye or orthopedic conditions, ensuring quicker recovery, improved function, and long-term health.