Ocular Herpes
Ocular Herpes Causes
Ocular herpes is caused by a highly infectious and recurrent viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, which can be transmitted via contact with an infected person or self contamination during an active herpes infection. The herpes simplex virus typically invades the body through the mouth or nose and spreads into the nerves, where they may remain inactive for years and never wake up from dormancy. An exact reason for an outbreak is not known; however, stress-related factors are believed to play a role, including: sunburn, fever, major dental or surgical procedures, and trauma.
Ocular Herpes Definition
Ocular Herpes pertains to a recurrent herpes infection affecting the eye, potentially causing corneal blindness.
Ocular Herpes Diagnosis
Ocular herpes is diagnosed based on symptoms and clinical presentations.
Ocular Herpes Symptoms and Signs
Ocular herpes may manifest with the following symptoms: sores appearing on the eye; sores appearing on the eyelid; and corneal inflammation, which, in turn, may cause discomfort, irritation, or sudden and severe ocular pain. Less common characteristics of ocular herpes are: swelling around the eyes; tearing; recurrent eye infections; irritation; foreign body sensation; eye redness; watery discharges from the eye; and heightened sensitivity to light or photosensitivity.
Ocular Herpes Treatment
Treatment for ocular herpes varies according to the location of the infection within the eye. In superficial infections, the use of antiviral eye drops or ointments, or oral antiviral pills may be sufficient to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, a doctor or specialist may need to perform debridement, which entails scraping away the infected corneal epithelial cells with a corneal spatula instrument or a cotton swab. After debridement, a soft contact lens may be placed on the affected eye to allow the cornea to heal.