herpes simplex of the eye

[Tigger237]

Anything else I should be doing for herpes simplex of the eye besides using the prescribed eye drops? Limit eye use---e.g. reading, studying? Am I harming my eye by reading when my eye is uncomfortable?

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Herpes zoster in the eye can be a real problem.  Can linger in eye for months or years if you really  have the real thing.  Oral antivirals can help, antiviral drops don't do much good.  Some patients actually require steroid drops, and can develop glaucoma and cataracts.  Good Luck.

MJK MD

[Tigger237]

My symptoms became worse and a follow-up visit today changed my dx. to shingles (herpes zoster)--no fun. thank you for your reply.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

One more thing - try to stay as healthy, stress free and well rested as possible.  Healthy lifestyle, healthy eating, exercise, proper sleep, multivitamins and minerals - these things may help to reduce incidence of recurrent attacks.  But proper treatment and following ophthalmologist advice, keeping regular follow ups visits - that's the main key.

MJK MD

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Is you have herpes simplex virus (HSV) of eye  you need careful and regular follow up visits with ophthalmologist.  THis virus can cause devastating damage to eye and has to be treated properly to avoid serious problems.  Oral antivirals can sometimes be a useful addition to antiviral drops.  The oral antivirals can also sometimes be used to try to reduce the incidence or a recurrence in certain patients.  using your eyes or reading has nothing to do with the disease and will not affect prognosis or hurt anything.  Excessive reading or computer work could make eyes very dry and tired and sore.  You can use extra artificial tears if you do have to do extended reading or computer work.  Make sure you are seeing board certified ophthalmologist to care for your problem (preferably a corneal specialist if possible.)

MJK MD

MJK MD