Herpes Eye Disease
WHAT IS HERPES?
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a common virus that can affect the eye and the body. There are two types. Type 1 causes cold sores and eye problems. Type 2 causes genital sores and eye problems in newborns.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF HERPES IN THE EYE?
Herpes (HSV) can affect many parts of the eye. You might get:
- Small blisters (vesicles) on the eyelids
- Red and watery eyes
- The feeling like something is in your eye
- Headache
- Eye pain in bright lights
The virus often affects the very front part of the eye called cornea. HSV can also cause problems inside the eye. This can lead to scarring and vision loss.
WHO GETS HSV IN THEIR EYE?
Anyone can get herpes, even babies. Many people get HSV as kids without knowing it. Babies can get it during birth. Herpes doesn’t always cause problems and it can live quietly in the body for years after infection. The virus can cause problems later in life when there is stress in the body.
HOW DO DOCTORS FIND HERPES?
Doctors look at symptoms and check the eyes for signs of HSV. They might also take samples to test for the virus.
HOW IS HSV EYE DISEASE TREATED?
Treatment depends on which part of the eye that is affected. Some treatments are:
- Ointment for eyelids
- Eye drops for the eye
- Pills or medicines to drink to fight the virus
- Eye drops for high eye pressure
It is important to see the ophthalmologist for follow ups to make sure the eye is healing well.
CAN HSV EYE DISEASE BE PREVENTED?
The virus spreads easily, but not everyone who touches it gets sick. Some people will get it many times. Sometimes pills or medicines to drink are needed to fight the virus and keep it from coming back. Sometimes these treatments are needed for years.
WHAT IS HERPES ZOSTER (SHINGLES)?
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. It can affect the eye like herpes does. It causes a painful rash on the forehead and around one eye. It is more common in older people and those with weak immune systems.
Updated 06/2024
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