What is Herpes Simplex Eye Disease?
The most common herpes simplex eye disease caused by HSV I is a recurrent infection of the cornea, the clear, front window of the eye. This can potentially threaten sight. The infection varies in duration, severity and response to treatment, depending in part on which of several strains of HSV I caused the original infection. It can be considered a cold sore or fever blister of the eye. The disease usually begins on the surface of the cornea. The eye turns red, is uncomfortable and sensitive to light. For most people this will be the only episode. Unfortunately, one out of four people who have a corneal infection is likely to have a recurrence within tow years. The process may go deeper into the cornea and cause permanent scarring or inflammation inside the eye. Chronic ulcers, which are sometime very difficult to heal, may also develop on the cornea. Herpes simplex eye disease usually occurs only in one eye and rarely spreads to the other eye. Spreading the infection to another person
