Eye herpes virus is an eye disorder caused by a type 1 of herpes simplex virus. Eye herpes or ocular herpes is a viral infection which is quiet common among adults and children. Ocular herpes is known to be transmitted very easily, usually when you come in contact with an already affected person.
According to National Eye institute(NIE), almost 400,000 Americans have experienced some or the other form of eye herpes virus and there are around 50,000 new and recurring cases of eye herpes every year.
Eye Herpes Virus, Various Forms: Let us look at a few forms of eye herpes virus that can cause a simple infection and in some extreme cases that can cause blindness.
Herpes Keratitis: This is the most common form of eye herpes and is known to cause an infection to the cornea. Herpes keratitis only affects the top layer(epithelium) of the cornea and usually does not leave behind any scars on it.
Stromal Keratitis: Stromal keratitis is known to be caused due to a delayed immune response, by which time the infection would have already spread deep into the corneal layers from the epithelium.
- In this case, there can be corneal scarring, vision loss and in very rare cases blindness.
- Although a rare condition, according to the NIE, stromal keratitis is the major cause for corneal scarring leading to blindness in most Americans.
Iridocyclitis: This is a very serious form of eye herpes. This form affects the iris and it’s surrounding tissues causing inflammation in side the eye.
- Patients suffering from iridocyclitis are known to be photo phobic(sensitive to light). They would suffer form pain and redness which would lead to blurred vision.
- The frontal and the inside portions of the eye are known to be the most affected due to this form.
Eye Herpes Treatment: Upon observing any signs of swelling, tearing ,redness, soreness and irritation of the eye it is very essential for an eye doctor not to overlook the possibility of eye herpes.
- If detected with an eye herpes disorder, the location of the infected eye layer is important in order to proceed with further medication and treatment.
- Most eye herpes related problems can be cured by using anti-viral eye drops, ointments and pills.
- Using the ophthalmic gel Zirgan(Virgan in Europe) up to 5 times a day can cure eye ulcers. Bear in mind, not to wear contacts when under medication.
- Sometimes, eye doctors may perform debridement(a cotton swab or spatula is used) to get rid of the dead epithelial cells. Upon which, the doctor may recommend the usage of soft contact lens to heal the cornea.
- Steroids are only to be used under strict prescription and supervision as they are known to affect the immunity in the eye.
- Very rarely is a surgery required to rectify the corneal scars which are usually healed with steroids.
Eye herpes virus can be a very common and recurring form of eye disorder and sufficient eye care is a must so as to heal ourselves and also not to transmit it.
