Reptile Bloody Eye Syndrome, also known as RBES, is an eye disorder that can affect many different species of reptiles. It’s associated with inflammation and bleeding in their eyes. The cause of this condition is not known, but it has been associated with poor nutrition and stress. Symptoms include redness and swelling of their eyes, discharge from the eyes, and ocular pain or discomfort. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and/or steroids, but in some cases, surgery will be necessary.
RBES is a serious condition that can result in blindness if not treated promptly. If you think that your reptile has RBES, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for an examination and diagnosis. There are several different causes of RBES, so proper diagnosis is key to effective treatment. With proper care and treatment, many reptiles can fully recover from RBES.
Symptoms of Reptile Bloody Eye Syndrome
- Redness and eye swelling
- Discharge from their eyes
- Ocular pain or discomfort
- Cloudy vison
- Excessive blinking
- Squinting
- Pupil constriction
- Eye rubbing or scratching
- Impaired vision
Diagnosing Reptile Bloody Eye Syndrome
The veterinarian will perform a physical exam and review your reptile’s medical history. They might also take samples of the discharge from their eyes or skin for testing. The vet might also use specialized equipment such as an ophthalmoscope, which is used to look inside the eye, in order to diagnose RBES.
Stages of Reptile Bloody Eye Syndrome
Stage 1
In this stage, the reptile can have mild redness and eye swelling. There could also be light discharge from their eyes.
Stage 2
At this stage, eye inflammation increases and there is often more severe discharge from the eyes. The pupils could become constricted and their vision can become impaired.
Stage 3
This is the most serious stage of RBES. At this stage, the inflammation is severe and their vision can be greatly impaired. Surgery could be necessary to correct the damage caused by the disorder.
Treating Reptile Bloody Eye Syndrome
Treating RBES depends on the severity of their condition. Mild cases can usually be treated with antibiotics and/or steroids. More severe cases might need surgery to correct the damage caused by the disorder. Regardless of the treatment chosen, it’s important to follow up with regular checkups to ensure that the reptile is responding to treatment.
It’s also important to make sure your reptile is getting proper nutrition and avoiding stress. These measures can help prevent the recurrence of RBES.
Preventing Reptile Bloody Eye Syndrome
The best way to prevent RBES is to make sure your reptile is getting proper nutrition and avoiding stress. Pay attention to the condition of your reptile’s eyes, and take them to the vet at the first sign of redness or swelling. Regular checkups with the vet can also help catch any early signs of RBES.