Herpes Simplex Virus Keratitis

Herpes simplex virus keratitis (HSV keratitis) is a type of eye infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. It is a very common eye disease, and often appears out of nowhere in an otherwise healthy person. It is an infection of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. It usually causes a red, painful eye, light sensitivity, and sometimes a watery eye. In some cases it can cause vision loss.

The virus is spread through contact with a person who has the virus. It is most commonly spread through touching a person’s eyes, nose or face who has the virus. It can also be spread through contact with saliva, tears, mucous, or bodily fluids from someone who has the virus. It can also be spread through contact with surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus.

HSV keratitis is treated with antiviral medications. These medications may be taken orally or injected into the eye. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair any damage to the cornea. Treatment usually lasts for a few weeks and may require several visits to the doctor.

To prevent getting HSV keratitis, avoid touching your eyes, nose, or face if you have been in contact with someone who has the virus. Also, avoid sharing towels, towels, and washcloths with others and avoid swimming in public pools. If you suspect you or someone close to you has the virus, it is important to see a doctor right away for treatment.

Symptoms of HSV Keratitis

The most common symptom of HSV keratitis is a red, painful eye. Other symptoms include light sensitivity, a watery eye, blurred vision, and redness of the eyelids and skin around the eye. In some cases, there may also be inflammation of the cornea.

Treating HSV Keratitis

Treatment for HSV keratitis usually involves antiviral medications. The medication may be taken orally or injected into the eye. In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair any damage to the cornea. Treatment usually lasts for several weeks and may require several visits to the doctor.

Complications

The most common complication of HSV keratitis is vision loss. If left untreated, the virus can cause permanent damage to the eye, including ulcers or scarring, corneal transplant, or even complete blindness. Other complications include secondary bacterial infections, recurrent eye infections, and increased risk of developing other eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts.

Prevention of HSV Keratitis

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or face if you have been in contact with someone who has the virus.
Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, and swimming in public pools.
If you suspect you or someone close to you has the virus, it is important to see a doctor right away for treatment.