Herpes simplex eye infections
Where to get medical help
Get medical help as soon as possible if you have the symptoms above. They could be caused by a herpes simplex infection or another eye condition that requires rapid treatment. If it's not treated, there's a chance your vision could be affected. You can get help and advice from: your GP or NHS 111 they can advise you about services in your area and refer you to an eye specialist (optometrist or ophthalmologist) your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department your nearest specialist eye A&E department If you wear contact lenses, take them out and don't use them again until you'vefully recovered.
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Introduction
Find out about eye infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, including what the symptoms are, where to get help and what the treatments are.
Symptoms of a herpes simplex eye infection
Symptoms of a herpes simplex eye infection can include: a red eye eye pain swelling around the eye sensitivity to bright light a watering eye blurred vision Usually only one eye is affect
Where to get medical help
Get medical help as soon as possible if you have the symptoms above. They could be caused by a herpes simplex infection or another eye condition that requires rapid treatment. If it's not treated, th
Treatments for herpes simplex eye infections
Most herpes simplex eye infections get better in a week or two, although they can last longer. Treatment is usually needed to reduce the risk of complications . The main treatments are: antiviral e
Causes of herpes simplex eye infections
Herpes simplex eye infectionsusually occur when a previous infection with the virus reactivates and spreads to the eye. Nearly everyone isexposed to theherpes simplex virus during childhood. Most peo
Possible complications
Herpes simplex eye infections don't usually cause further problems if they're treated promptly, but about one in five cases are more serious and carry a higher risk of complications. These can includ
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