Eye herpes, or HSV keratitis, is a common eye infection typically caused by type 1 herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) — the same virus that causes cold sores. It affects approximately 1.5 million people around the world each year and is one of the most common causes of infectious blindness in the USA and Canada.

People typically contract eye herpes by touching a cold sore and then touching their eyes. Once contracted, the virus stays in the body for life but may remain dormant for months or years.

How Does Eye Herpes Affect the Eyes?

Eye herpes can affect the eyelids, cornea, retina, conjunctiva, iris, and sclera. Common signs and symptoms include tearing, swollen lymph nodes, irritation, redness, eye sores, watery discharge, sensitivity to light, headache, a feeling of something stuck in the eye, blisters or rash on the eyelids, and reduced or blurred vision.

What Causes Eye Herpes Flare-Ups?

Major stressors can often trigger a bout of eye herpes, including emotional distress, excessive sunlight exposure, fever, major surgical or dental procedures, refractive surgery, and trauma. A weakened immune system can also increase the risk of reactivation.

Can Eye Herpes Be Prevented?

The most important step is to keep your eyes and hands clean, especially if you have cold sores. Avoid touching your eyes if you or someone around you has an outbreak. Contact lens wearers should follow their eye doctor's instructions carefully and avoid swimming in contacts.

How We Can Help

While there's no cure for eye herpes, antiviral medication — in the form of eye drops, ointment, or oral medication — can prevent vision loss and help control future outbreaks. Early diagnosis and treatment, ideally within a 72-hour window, can significantly improve outcomes.

If you're experiencing symptoms of eye herpes, call Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio at (937) 228-2020 to schedule your eye exam promptly.