Episcleritis is an inflammatory condition of the connective tissue between the conjunctiva and sclera known as the episclera. The eye’s red appearance makes it look similar to conjunctivitis, or pink eye, but there is no discharge or tearing. It usually has no apparent cause; however, it is sometimes associated with systemic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease. Rosacea, herpes simplex, gout, tuberculosis, and other diseases are also occasionally underlying causes.

Women are typically affected by episcleritis more frequently than men. It characteristically occurs in people who are in their 30’s and 40’s and is often a recurrent problem.