How Can I Manage Eye Herpes?

What is Eye Herpes?

Eye herpes, or ocular herpes, is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of HSV:

• HSV-1. The usual culprit in eye herpes. Most of us get this as kids, and it causes cold sores.
• HSV-2. This is associated with genital herpes. It can infect the eyes, but it’s less common.

How Does Herpes Affect Our Eyes?

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) cannot be cured, but it typically remains dormant in the body. However, it can reactivate and, in some cases, affect the eyes.

Depending on which part of the eye is affected, it can cause a range of issues:

• Pink eye-like symptoms, but often worse irritation, pain, light sensitivity, and blurry vision
• Ulcers (sores), leaving scars and hurting your vision
• In severe cases, the virus gets further into the eye and can cause serious damage

When to See a Doctor

It’s crucial to see an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) if you think you have eye herpes. Other eye problems can cause similar symptoms, and getting the right diagnosis leads to the correct treatment.

Even if you’ve never had a cold sore, you might still have HSV-1. Many people get infected as children, but the symptoms are so mild they don’t even notice.

What to Expect During Your Doctor Visit

When visiting your ophthalmologist, be ready to talk about your symptoms, especially whether you’ve ever had cold sores or been around someone with them. Timing, how your eye feels, and anything that makes it worse or better are all important clues.

Your doctor may also use special tools like a slit lamp to see your eye up close. Specific signs can point to herpes⁠—swelling, blisters, or ulcers (open sores) on the eye’s surface.

For a definite diagnosis, your doctor might take a tiny sample from the eye and send it for testing. This can confirm the herpes virus and its type.

Is There a Way to Treat Eye Herpes?

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and exactly which part of the eye is affected. In most cases, your doctor will prescribe antiviral medications.

Antiviral medication can be administered through:

• Eye drops
• Oral pills
• Intravenous (IV) medication (in severe cases where the infection has reached the eye’s deeper structures)

For people who have frequent outbreaks, taking an antiviral pill daily can help prevent them. This will be like putting your eye’s defenses on high alert long-term.

If herpes has scarred your cornea badly, a corneal transplant may be the only way to restore your vision. It involves replacing the damaged part with healthy donor tissue. 

Important Things to Remember

Here are important things to remember when “treating” herpes:

• Even after treatment, the virus is still in your body, just sleeping. That’s why it can come back later.
• Knowing your triggers (stress, illness, sunlight) and using medication if you need to are the best ways to keep flares in check.
• Most people with a herpes eye infection do very well with the right care, especially if caught early.

Living with Eye Herpes

The idea of living with eye herpes can be daunting. Yes, there’s no cure for herpes, but that doesn’t mean your life with good vision is over. 

Treatment and some proactive steps can make a big difference. Many people with this infection don’t have major vision problems.

Here’s what you need to know about managing it long-term and protecting your vision:

• Go to regular check-ups. Catching flares early is crucial. Even if you feel fine, your doctor can spot signs of trouble brewing.
• Manage other eye problems. Sometimes, eye herpes can make you more prone to other problems. Your doctor can watch for this and treat it promptly.

• Support system. Talk to people you trust. Support groups can be a lifeline, and sharing your experience helps.
• Find stress-relieving activities. Stress can be a trigger. Find what calms you: exercise, meditation, being in nature – anything healthy!

• Wash your hands frequently. Handwashing is key, especially if you’re touching your eyes. It sounds basic, but it’s a big deal.
• Avoid sharing personal items: You should avoid sharing items like towels and washcloths to avoid cross-contamination. 
• Know when you’re risky. If you feel an outbreak coming on or have active sores, be extra careful not to touch your eyes and then other surfaces or kiss someone.

Managing a long-term health issue can feel overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns or questions. That’s what they’re there for! Your eye doctor is there to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management.