The episclera houses a thin web link of blood vessels.

Episcleritis usually looks much worse than it actually is.

Treatment

Episcleritis may go away on its own within 3 weeks if left untreated.

close up of an inflamed eye

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Most healthcare providers treat episcleritis to hasten recovery.

Episcleritis vs. Scleritis

Episcleritis occurs in the thin tissue between the conjunctiva and the white sclera.

The episclera houses a thin internet of blood vessels.

The sclera is the tough, white exterior coating of the eyeball.

Scleritis can even be a blinding disease and is typically associated more with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Optometrists and ophthalmologists are trained to differentiate between episcleritis and scleritis.

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