How to Get Rid of Eye Herpes

Herpes of the eye, or ocular herpes simplex, is a viral infection caused by the same virus that leads to cold sores. When herpes infects the eye, it can cause severe eye damage or even vision loss if left untreated. About one in four people with ocular herpes affecting the cornea will experience a recurrence of the infection within two years, according to the University of Illinois Department of Ophthalmology. Proper medical treatment is necessary to get rid of an initial herpes eye infection and any subsequent ones.

Instructions

• 1

  Apply antiviral eye drops or ointment as directed by your doctor. If your doctor thinks you need oral antiviral medications, take them as directed. Use all medication for as long as your ophthalmologist recommends to completely eradicate the virus.

• 2

  Ask your ophthalmologist if you might benefit from a treatment that involves wiping the infected cells from the surface of the eye. Do not try to do this yourself; it is a procedure that must be performed by a doctor.

• 3

  Consider asking your doctor about corticosteroid eye drops, which can help control herpes that affects the cornea, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

• 4

  Keep all follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist, and follow all of your doctor's instructions carefully to get rid of a herpes infection of the eye.