Herpes of the Eye: Varieties of Ocular Herpes

Almost half a million people in the United States suffer from herpes of the eye. This virus, also known as Ocular Herpes is caused by type 1 Herpes simplex virus. It is a recurrent eye infection that is typically limited to only one of the eyes.

There are four distinct types of Ocular Herpes. They range in severity from mild to very severe, having the potential to cause permanent blindness. The severity of any occurrence of herpes in the eye can only be determined by a physician.

Herpes Keratitis is by far the most common form of the infection. The symptoms of this particular type are limited to the epithelium or top layer of the cornea. Although this category of herpes of the eye is recurring, it generally heals on its own and without scarring.

Stromal Keratitis is a more serious infection that causes problems beyond the top layer of the eye. Because it can travel deep into the cornea, this form of the infection can lead to diminished vision and even blindness in the most severe cases. Many physicians believe that this more destructive type of the disease is caused by an insufficient response by the body's immune system to the more common Herpes Keratitis infection.

Iridocyclitis is also a serious form of herpes in the eye. However, unlike Stromal Keratitis, this version of the virus attacks the iris or uvea and surrounding tissues, which can include the ciliary body and choroid. Infection causes inflammation of the iris and can cause severe symptoms, which include diminished vision, light sensitivity, pain and redness.

Herpes Retinitis occurs when herpes of the eye attacks the retina or the interior lining at the back of the eye. Common symptoms for this form of the virus are similar to those of Iridocyclitis, including blurred vision, sensitivity to light, moderate pain and redness.

Regardless of which of the four types exist, there are some symptoms commonly caused by the settling of herpes in the eye. These typically include swelling around the perimeter of the eye, excessive tearing, redness, irritation, the sensation that something is in the eye and light sensitivity.

It is generally accepted that the majority of people suffering from herpes of the eye contracted the disease at some point during their childhood. The virus settles in the nerves going into the face and most often remains dormant throughout life. It is not completely understood what causes activation of the virus in some people, although the strength of the immune system is considered to be an important determining factor. Other possible catalysts may include bodily traumas such as stress, sunburn, fever, or major dental or surgical procedures.

It is also possible to contract the disease through contact with an infected person who is actively exhibiting symptoms linked to herpes of the eye. Another possible factor of infection can be self-contamination caused by spreading the virus to the eye from a cold sore or other type of herpes outbreak.

Anyone suspecting they may have contracted this virus should seek medical attention as it is important to determine the severity of the infection. One method of diminishing the frequency of outbreaks is by improving your diet with immunity boosting supplements. There are several all natural products readily available in reputable health food stores. Controlling your stress level is also an excellent method of managing herpes of the eye. Due to the viral nature of this disease, a cure does not currently exist. However, with proper awareness, sufferers should be able to minimize the impact the outbreaks have on their lives.