Herpes Keratitis is also sometimes referred to as Herpes Simplex Keratitis. It is a viral infection that affects the eye. This condition may be caused by HSV or herpes simplex virus. HSV is categorized in two types. HSV Type I is comparatively frequent and has its influence mostly on face; it may lead to symptoms such as ‘fever blister’ also known as cold sores. HSV Type II is classified as a STD which is sexually transmitted disease and has its influences at genitals (this condition is also known as ‘genital herpes’).
However, it should be known that both, HSV Type I and HSV Type II can cause infection of eyes. Amongst the two kinds of herpes HSV type I is the common cause of eye infection. This condition is also transferrable by coming in contact with active viruses and then touching your own eyes.
Herpes Keratitis- Signs and symptoms:
The herpes keratitis which is caused due to affliction of herpes simplex virus shows some signs and symptoms. The most common symptom of herpes simplex keratitis is reddened eye with varying intensity of pain or irritation. Other common symptoms may also include photophobia as well as epistrophe; however, ocular ability may be afflicted or may be unhindered, depending on the condition of the corneal lesion. Follicular conjunctivitis as well as vesicular skin lesions or rashes can be seen during the initial stage of infection. However, these symptoms are uncommon in case of recurring HSV. However, a more frequently noticed symptom is uveitis which is inflammation of uvea portion of the eye.
Dendriotic corneal lesion, is in fact the determinant symptom of HSV infection which is usually noticed with stromal keratitis in case of advanced or severe condition. The lesions may start as an unremarkable or ordinary punctuate disease of eyes (keratopathies). However, the conditions may insidiously and quickly combine and alter to form a pattern with bright stain of the protein dye, Sodium fluorescein. In case any of the symptoms of herpes keratitis is experienced one should seek immediate treatment; as if the condition is left untreated it may cause severe eye damages.
Herpes Keratitis Pictures
Check out Herpes Simplex Keratitis pictures to see how the eye looks under the influence of this disorder or viral infection.
Herpes Keratitis Causes:
Herpes Keratitis virus remains dormant or inactive, dwelling in the cells of nerves in the eye, after its affliction or active phase. There are several circumstances that may trigger herpes kerartitis.
• Stress
• Exposure to sun
• Degree of fever
• Traumatic influence on the body such as injuries, surgeries etc
• Menses or menstrual cycle
• Effects of certain medications
Incase herpes simplex virus is dwelling in eye; it normally contaminates the eyelids, cornea or conjunctiva or the eye. In some cases the infection may also affect the internal portion of the eye; which is found in seldom cases. It should be noted that Type I HVS is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact between skin and infected source. This kind of infection usually affects during childhood, but approximately 90% of the entire population is exposed to such Type I infection.
Herpes Keratitis Treatment
The herpes simplex keratitis (corneal infection or ulcer) treatment may depend on the severity of the condition. It is essential to seek treatment for infection immediately; herpes keratitis may penetrate and become severe. One of the treatments of this infectious condition is 1% topical trifluridine give to the patient every two hours and approx nine times on daily basis. If the infection degrades a little, you may have to taper the dosage. The best way to determine appropriate dosage according to the infection is by consulting a certified doctor. However, the dosage can be reduced to q3-4h which may gradually ebb away the lesions within 8 to 10 days.
Some health care experts suggest degrading the ulcer to eradicate cells of active virus; but this solution has not shown any faster results. If you determine that your infection is a case of active epithelial herpes simplex virus, then you should avert use of topical steroids. It is studied that such viruses multiply themselves rapidly when steroids are present in the body or around the afflicted region. This may in turn increase the course of the infection. According to a recent study it is determined that reoccurrence of herpes simplex keratitis is reduced significantly with help of oral acyclovir.
How to prevent Herpes Keratitis:
• Incase any family member is afflicted with herpes simplex keratitis you need to ensure that they don’t touch their eyes and then other spaces in the house. This may transmit the infection to other members in the house.
• For faster cure seek treatment, but avoid steroid based eye drops as the viruses may multiply and it may take more time to get rid of the infection.
• If your eye gets infected recurrently and your wear contact lenses, then it is better that you stop wearing contact lenses.
• If you notice any formidable sign or suspect infection of herpes simplex virus you should immediately see an ophthalmologist.
Herpes simplex keratitis should not be taken lightly. It is a serious condition which can progress to adverse consequences if not treated timely. Hence; affected individuals should opt for herpes keratitis symptom as soon as the affliction is determined.
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