Herpes Simplex after eye exam

I have experienced bad outbreaks of herpes simplex on my face the day following an eye exam for several eye exams in a row (spaced one to three years apart). The exams were with different eye docs. Is there any evidence of a link between herpes simplex and the drops used to dilate the eyes, or the slit lamp? It's very difficult for me to believe there is no link because I very rarely have herpes simplex outbreaks, even when under extreme stress.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

No evidence whatsoever. Maybe going to the doctor is stressful for you; stress is a frequent cause of herpes simplex outbreak. If you are really concerned have your personal MD prescribe Acyclovir,
Famvir or Valtrex to take a day before and a couple of days after your next eye exam.

JCH III MD

[JEA9]

Is it possible that since herpes simplex lives in the nerve endings, and since the eye drops used cause temporary paralysis in the area, that this would create an opportunity for the virus to attack? I do have an ongoing prescription for acyclovir, so I am not worried about my current symptoms. What I'm worried about is that this is a pattern I want to avoid the occurrence in future. Thanks.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

No it is not possible.

JCH III MD

[JEA9]

Well, I'm not buying the idea that the outbreaks are caused by stress. I have been living through sporadic outbreaks of herpes simplex since I was a kid and after 35 years or so I have a pretty good understanding of when they are caused by stress. I guess I will investigate this further on my own. I also have noted herpes simplex outbreaks after eating chocolate and I have given up chocolate, which -- not coincidentally I think -- has some of the same affects as atropine. Thanks for your time.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Chocolate similiar to atropine? As a lifelong chocolate addict I beg to differ.

Anyway good luck with your research.

JCH III MD