What Can I Do About Ocular Herpes?

Ocular herpes is an eye infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV)—most commonly HSV type 1, the same virus that causes cold sores. The virus can occur either during the initial HSV infection or after the virus has been dormant and reactivates. 

Ocular herpes is one of the leading infectious causes of corneal blindness. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing permanent vision loss.

Symptoms

Symptoms can affect one or both eyes and may include:

  • Eye redness
  • Eye pain or irritation
  • Excessive tearing
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Blurred vision
  • Feeling like something is in the eye
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Small blisters or sores on the eyelids

Symptoms may develop suddenly and can recur over time.

What Parts of the Eye Are Affected?

The infection can involve different parts of the eye:

  • Cornea (herpes simplex keratitis): The most common form. Infection of the cornea can cause pain, blurred vision, and scarring.
  • Conjunctiva: The clear membrane covering the white of the eye.
  • Eyelids: May develop blisters similar to cold sores.
  • Deeper eye tissues (stroma, iris, retina): Less common but more serious, potentially leading to permanent vision loss.

Diagnosis

An ophthalmologist typically diagnoses ocular herpes through a comprehensive eye examination, including:

  • A slit-lamp examination
  • Special fluorescein dye to identify characteristic corneal ulcers
  • In rare cases, laboratory testing

 

 

The Discovery Eye Foundation
Find out what ocular herpes is through The Discovery Eye Foundation- a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles.