Herpes simplex eye infections
Treatments for herpes simplex eye infections
Most herpes simplex eye infections get better in a week or two, although they can last longer. Treatment is usually needed to reduce the risk of complications .
The main treatments are:
- antiviral eye drops or ointment these stop the virus spreading and are usually used several times a day for up to two weeks
- steroid eye drops these may be used in combination with antiviral drops (under supervision by an ophthalmologist) to reduce inflammation
- antiviral tablets these are occasionally needed for to treat more severe infections and afterwards to stop them coming back
Make sure you follow the advice you're given and take any prescribed treatment as directed.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about eye infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, including what the symptoms are, where to get help and what the treatments are.
Symptoms of a herpes simplex eye infection
Symptoms of a herpes simplex eye infection can include: a red eye eye pain swelling around the eye sensitivity to bright light a watering eye blurred vision Usually only one eye is affect
Where to get medical help
Get medical help as soon as possible if you have the symptoms above. They could be caused by a herpes simplex infection or another eye condition that requires rapid treatment. If it's not treated, th
Treatments for herpes simplex eye infections
Most herpes simplex eye infections get better in a week or two, although they can last longer. Treatment is usually needed to reduce the risk of complications . The main treatments are: antiviral e
Causes of herpes simplex eye infections
Herpes simplex eye infectionsusually occur when a previous infection with the virus reactivates and spreads to the eye. Nearly everyone isexposed to theherpes simplex virus during childhood. Most peo
Possible complications
Herpes simplex eye infections don't usually cause further problems if they're treated promptly, but about one in five cases are more serious and carry a higher risk of complications. These can includ
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