Herpes Eye Infection

What is it?

A serious eye infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (the same virus family as the ‘cold sore virus’ and ‘genital herpes virus’).

Speak to your Medical Doctor urgently on the same day, if no appointment then please do not wait, phone for an ambulance.

Cause

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1
If one already has:
Direct contact with another infected person
Weak immune system
An illness or a high temperature (fever) above 38C (100.4F)
Exposure to strong sunlight or cold wind
Eye injury
Stress
Menstruation (females only)

Source: Ophthalmology: Health of Your Eyes

Source: Timmy Chin - blogger

Source: Daily Health Tips

Source: Dr Peter Heyworth

Source: Herpes.com

Symptoms

Red and watering eyes?
Eye pain?
Swelling around the eye?
Sensitivity to bright light?
Blurred vision?

Complications /Information to beware of/General tips:

Medical Emergency Condition IF SEVERE

Otherwise speak to your Medical Doctor urgently on the same day, if no appointment then please do not wait, phone for an ambulance

Do not wait, phone for an ambulance if have or develop:

Eye ulcer
Acanthamoeba Keratitis
Shingles on the face (if no opportunity to see medical Doctor on the same day)

General tips

You should cover the eye with a light dressing so the infection doesn’t spread any further.
Avoid wearing contact lenses until the infection has healed, to stop the virus spreading to your eyes.
You can take an over-the-counter painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief (if suitable, speak to your pharmacist if unsure).
Do not attempt to drain the fluid, as this may cause the virus to spread or cause a bacterial infection.

NHS Choices

Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice

Detailed Information

Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Herpes Eye Infection in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).

NHS
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Medscape
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WebMD
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National Organisation of Rare Diseases
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Verywell Health
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