Which statement best reflects patient education for episcleritis?

• A. It is an infection requiring antibiotics
• B. It typically resolves on its own, with anti-inflammatory drops for comfort
• C. It always causes vision loss
• D. It requires immediate surgical intervention

Answer: (B)

Episcleritis is a mild, self-limited inflammation of the outer white portion of the eye. For patient education, the main idea is that it usually goes away on its own, and comfort can be improved with anti-inflammatory drops or lubricating tears. It is not an infection, so antibiotics aren’t needed. Vision is typically normal, and surgery is not required. Most people notice improvement within one to three weeks. If symptoms worsen, or there is significant pain, sudden vision changes, or the redness spreads quickly, seek re-evaluation. Some episodes can recur or be associated with other inflammatory conditions, so your clinician may check for related symptoms if this happens.