Optical Herpes Cure

Also referred to as HSV, the herpes simplex virus affects many areas of the human body, and is a recurring condition. When it affects the eye, symptoms are very uncomfortable, but fortunately can be treated. Treating eye herpes involves targeting its symptoms and helping the virus to become dormant, since the virus will remain in your body indefinitely. The aim is to prevent the virus from recurring, and when the virus is active, to help alleviate the symptoms. Treating optical herpes as early as possible is key, so it is essential that you recognize its signs and symptoms immediately.

Symptoms

• Individuals exposed to the virus for the first time may not experience any early warning signs. However, once any symptoms appear, consult a doctor immediately because there is a slight possibility HSV can cause damage to your eyesight. Symptoms of eye herpes include swollen eyelids, rashes in the eyelids, redness in the eyes, discomfort and pain in the eyes (especially when looking into bright lights), watery eyes and blurry eyesight.
  If the doctor diagnoses these symptoms as signs of herpes, he will refer you to an ophthalmologist for specialized treatment. The ophthalmologist will examine your infected eye using a microscope and light source. Dye drops may be placed in your eyes to assist the doctor in seeing your eye better. The doctor will be able to see the presence of the herpes virus and begin to treat you accordingly.

Treatment

• Typically, eye drops are prescribed to alleviate the discomfort until the virus runs its course. If the deep layers of your cornea become inflamed or scarred, causing damage in vision, treatment for your eye will usually involve steroid eye drops instead of the typical ointment and eye drops used for eye herpes. However, when used incorrectly or taken for long periods of time, steroid eye drops can lead to cataracts and other eyesight problems, so doctors are hesitant to prescribe this treatment unless your condition necessitates a more aggressive approach.
  Doctors will also typically prescribe antiviral tablets to shorten the duration of the symptoms. Finally, they will caution that you never touch or scratch your eyes while they are infected. If you can't avoid it, make sure your hands are completely clean and sanitize your hands again after touching your eyes. Keep in mind that herpes is contagious. Once you touch your eye and touch someone else, he can easily catch the infection.

Prognosis

• The eye infection will typically go away in a couple of weeks but there is always the chance of it recurring and causing more serious damage to eyesight. However, chances of this infection permanently damaging your eyesight are quite small. Based on studies published at HealthGuide.com, less than one in 10 people had their eyesight damaged or affected over a 30-year period.