What Are the Treatments for Herpes in the Eyes?

The same virus (herpes simplex type 1) that causes cold sores on the mouth and lips can cause an infection of the cornea, the iris or even in severe cases, the retina. There are several types of treatments available for treating the condition.

Debridement

• In some cases, a physician can remove the infected cells in the cornea using a cotton swab or other instrument; this is called debridement.

Antiviral Eyedrops

• Antiviral drops may need to be applied directly to the eye(s) every hour to treat herpes keratitis. Trifluridine is an example of an antiviral eye drop that may be prescribed by a physician.

Corticosteroids

• While steroid eye drops may weaken the body's immune system, they are often used to lessen corneal scarring and are often used in conjunction with antiviral eye drops.

Oral Antiviral Medications

• There are several oral antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir that can be used to treat herpes infection in the eye; these are especially useful if the skin has also been infected.

Corneal Transplant

• A Herpes infection in the eye can cause scarring of the cornea. In fact, the cornea can sometimes become so damaged that only a corneal transplant can restore clear vision.

Considerations

• A Herpes infection in the eye can often reoccur; even after treatment is complete. While there is no cure for Herpes, oral antivirals can prevent outbreaks in some patients.