Eye Infections (Herpes Simplex)
Herpes simplex is an eye infection that is potentially a severe type of infection. A virus called herpes simplex is the primary reason behind it, and the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) also causes cold sores. It’s important to seek a doctor’s help if you think you have the infection, and if not treated, your vision might be at stake.
Herpes simplex symptoms
The symptoms can include:
- Eye pain
- Red-eye
- Swelling around the eyes
- Bright light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Watery eye
Herpes simplex causes
The infection only appears when the previous infection reactivates and spreads in the eye. Nearly most people have had herpes simplex in childhood but with no symptoms, and then the virus will be inactive but stay in the body. Later on, for some people, it may become reactive. For others, the following might be some reasons.
- High temperature or an illness
- Exposure to strong sunlight
- Exposure to cold wind
- Eye injury
- Stress
- Menstrual cycle
- Weakened immunity due to chemotherapy
Herpes simplex complications
One in four cases might carry a high risk of complications that can include:
- Scarring of the cornea (front of your eye)
- Eye infections by bacteria or fungi
- Glaucoma
- Permanent vision loss
It’s also more likely to have the infection again at some point.
Herpes simplex treatments
The infection gets better within 1–2 weeks but can last longer. The treatments work to reduce the risks of complications. The primary treatments include:
- Antiviral eye drops
- Ointments
- Steroid eye drops
- Antiviral tablets
Make sure to follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment, and it’s essential to complete the course recommended for any medicine, even when you no longer have any symptoms; this helps stop the infection from returning.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 23 JUNE 2022