Ocular Herpes

Introduction

Herpes simplex eye infections are a potentially serious type of eye infection.They're caused by a virus called herpes simplex – usually the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which also causes cold sores.

Symptoms

• a red eye
• eye pain
• swelling around the eye
• sensitivity to bright light
• a watering eye
• blurred visionUsually only 1 eye is affected.

Management

• Antiviral eyedrops or ointment – these stop the virus spreading and are usually used several times a day for up to 2 weeks
• Steroid eyedrops – these may be used in combination with antiviral drops (under supervision by an ophthalmologist) to reduce inflammation
• Antiviral tablets – these are occasionally needed to treat more severe infections and afterwards to stop them coming back