POSSIBLE?

15 years ago I became sick withsomething unknown whereas the symptoms were being very tired flu like symptoms in my head as well as pins and needle sensations and a swollen gland by my ear.  Additionally, I had distorted vision with what I call white looking amoeba dancing around in my vision.  Went to walk in clinic who said it was a head virus and gave me antibiotic.  The med cleared my symptoms up about 60% of the way.  I learned to live with the other 40%.

Today, I have some distorted vision with the white amoeba dancing and it looks like a sheet of celophane in my vision.  increased peripheral neuropathy.  The vision distortion is 24hrs a day as well as the other symptoms.

Have been to the following docs:

opthalmologist
retina specialist
neuro opth
neurologist
internist

All appropriate scans and tests are negative.  I have been tested for HIV and am negative.  I do recall 15 yrs ago I had a girlfriend who had Herpes and we had sex numerous times.  I am having my first child at age 35 and am finally trying to determine what my symptoms are.  

Can Herpes invade the brain and cause these symptoms for so long?  Can it remain active for this period of time?  My symptoms have not gotten better or worsen for 15 years.

Thanks for your insight.  Running out of options.  Am seeing an infectious disease spec. end of month.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Herpes simplex virus, both types 1 and 2, can infect the central nervous system, but they cause severe disease (HSV-1 encephalitis often is fatal), not milder ongoing symptoms such as you describe.  I am certain no STD, herpes or otherwise, is causing your symptoms.

Sorry I can't be of more help.  Best wishes--

HHH, MD