episcleritis specialist vs ophthalmologist

[caof]

Dealing with Episcleritis for 8 yrs now. Lots of eye drops,oral meds and kenalog injections. I have has this everyday. It might relieve itself for 1 wk out of a month.2001 & 2005 diagnosed with Lyme disease. They didn't find it till 3rd stage. I was given advice to go to cleveland clinic (expensive) to see a specialist. What would be the difference? Also everything i have read and been told by dr. suggest that No one knows what causes this or that there are no cures. So what am i up against?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

Unless the episcleritis is out of control there is probably little reason to go to the expense of see someone at the Cleveland Clinic.

Read the section on episcleritis at emedicine.com

JCHMD

[caof]

Thank you for the link, I had already read it. I have read just about everything on this eye disease. It's so frustrating that little is known about episcleritis. My ophthmologist is at her wits ends. That is why she suggested going to either Uof M or cleveland clinc,My only concern is for the huge cost it has already cost me and huge expense of these two places , Are they going to be able to tell me anything different or treat this any different than what i have already done with no success? I have read that with having Lyme x2 that the antibodies will always be in my system since dr caught it in latter stages and being allergic to anti inflammatories. anything would be appreciated.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

Episcleritis is rarely serious. It is common. Today I saw two patients with it. If your's is severe and resistant I would suggest you see a rheumatologist and be considered for oral immuno-suppression.  

JCH MD

[caof]

I had been on prednisone for a yr. It would help with pain,but eberytime I would wean off of it I would have to go right back on it. I have been off it since 7-16-2009 now. The pain isn't as severe as in the past. Usually i can take 2 tylenol and a heating pad on eye and head. My eyes are only clear for about 1 wk a month. What could immuno drugs due? I have been told by a MD that my immune system isn't very good due to the Lyme and Prednisone.Also developed Adrenal Insuffiency from Pred.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

In a same or similar situation I would refer the person to a rheumatolist and have them under the care of a corneal/external disease ophthalmologist.
JCH MD