I think I have infected my eye with herpes

[guest222]

I think I have infected my eyes with the herpes simplex virus....I have cold sores and my eyes were itching and I am a contact user.  I have not touched my eyes but I was scared and wanted to wash my eyes so I used a cream soap in a container that I was using to wash my soars with.  My eyes then became more itchy so than I used some alcohol wipes to clean my hands and and took out my contacts.  My eyes still were not that bad but then I soaked them in disinfectant solution over night that I am allergic to and wore them the next day.  But my concern was the corner of my eye which seem to be swollen a little and itchy.  I went to the doctor and told him about my cold sores and that I thought my eyes were infected.  He told me they were inflamed and gave me steroid drops and some tear drops because my eyes were dry and sent me on my way.  Did not even say I had to come back.  I'm worry about reading that you should not take steroid drops for herpes simplex and I really think I have infected my eyes with this.  Should I go to another doctor???   I'm wondering if he did the correct thing for my situation.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

It would be a good idea to see the same doctor again.  Yes, if herpes simplex lesions are in or around the eye, usually steroid drops are a bad idea. In some select cases, however wtih deeper stromal herpes inflammation, steroid drops are necessary.  Tricky disease and steroids are sometimes avoided (usually) and sometimes needed.  If there are fresh herpes simplex lesions around the mouth or nose I generally prescribe an oral antiviral pill like valtrex or acyclovir and avoid steroid drops in the eye unless absolutely necessary.

[bbarbiee]

don't click on the giant promotion at the top that targets your wallet, lol!  (:D

[bbarbiee]

there are lots of good prevention through diet sites, here's one:

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/foods-to-avoid-with-cold-sores-for-permanent-relief.html

[bbarbiee]

i found this site:  http://eyecare.ygoy.com/2010/08/28/eye-herpes-virus-forms-and-treatment/  & this paragraph at the bottom of their page:
"Eye Herpes Treatment: Upon observing any signs of swelling, tearing ,redness, soreness and irritation of the eye it is very essential for an eye doctor not to overlook the possibility of eye herpes.  If detected with an eye herpes disorder, the location of the infected eye layer is important in order to proceed with further medication and treatment.
Most eye herpes related problems can be cured by using anti-viral eye drops, ointments and pills.  Using the ophthalmic gel Zirgan(Virgan in Europe) up to 5 times a day can cure eye ulcers.   [[Bear in mind, not to wear contacts when under medication.]]  
Sometimes, eye doctors may perform debridement(a cotton swab or spatula is used) to get rid of the dead epithelial cells. Upon which, the doctor may recommend the usage of soft contact lens to heal the cornea. Steroids are only to be used under strict prescription and supervision as they are known to affect the immunity in the eye.
Very rarely is a surgery required to rectify the corneal scars which are usually healed with steroids.  Eye herpes virus can be a very common and recurring form of eye disorder and sufficient eye care is a must so as to heal ourselves and also not to transmit it."  i hope this helps.  i will put you on my (7 pm NZ time :) Healing Prayer List...are you a Christian believer?