How is episcleritis treated?
Initial symptomatic treatment includes cold compresses and topical lubricants. If frequent or prolonged use of topical lubricants is required, preservative-free formulations should be used to prevent irritation. If these measures fail, topical nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be tried, but data suggests that they are no more effective than lubricants alone. Topical corticosteroids are extremely effective and should be considered the next line of therapy. Oral NSAIDs may be used if there is no response to local therapies. Systemic corticosteroids are rarely required.
