Eye ointment drops against herpes. Symptomatic and concomitant medications

From this article you will learn:

• ocular herpes: symptoms and causes,
• herpes on the eye - treatment, photo,
• list of effective drugs.

Primary eye infection with herpes most often occurs in early childhood. The first case of the disease is usually mild and resembles ordinary conjunctivitis (Fig. 1-3). The latter usually resolves quickly without complications and without involvement of the cornea. If the cornea is nevertheless involved, then lacrimation and photophobia are added to the redness of the conjunctiva.

In some cases, in addition to these symptoms, rashes of herpetic blisters may appear on the eyelids (Figure 4-5), i.e. vesicular blepharitis. The resulting blisters burst after a few days, leaving ulcerations that heal without scarring in about 7-10 days. In parallel with this, some “fogging” of vision is possible.

Herpes on the eyelid (blepharitis) –

Primary ocular herpes occurs precisely in early childhood - due to a gradual decrease during this period in the residual amount of antibodies to the herpes virus that were received from the mother during pregnancy. Moreover, if herpes on the eye occurs against the background of a still fairly high level of antibodies in the blood serum, the symptoms are usually mild and may be limited to conjunctivitis.

If against the background of low antibody levels, damage to the eyelids and cornea is possible. Many patients may develop repeated relapses of the disease after a primary infection. According to statistics, in 10% of patients the first relapse occurs within the first year. Unlike primary eye herpes, a chronic recurrent form of the disease can lead to significant damage to the cornea, deterioration and even loss of vision.

Herpes of the eye: causes

There are many types of herpes virus - the so-called herpevirus family. However, only 3 types of herpesviruses cause eye damage. Most often it is herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), less often – herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and herpes zoster virus (HSV-3). Herpes on the eye caused by the HSV-2 and HSV-3 viruses is much more difficult to treat.

After initial infection and recovery, the herpes virus persists in the sensory and autonomic nerve ganglia. This explains why the herpes virus primarily affects the lips, cornea of ​​the eye, oral mucosa and genitals. The fact is that it is in these tissues of the body that a large number of sensory nerve fibers are concentrated. And when immunity decreases, the virus is activated, causing a relapse of the disease.

The herpes virus can enter the cornea of ​​the eye through direct contact with a person with active clinical manifestations of herpes. In addition, you can introduce the virus yourself if you have active or herpetic stomatitis. It is enough to spit on your fingers or touch your lips with your hand, and then rub your eyes. You can even transfer herpes from the lip to the eye area by simply wiping yourself with a towel.

In children -
Herpetic eye lesions develop especially often in children. Young children constantly put their hands in their mouths and lick them. And if a child has herpes on the lip, the skin around the mouth or on the mucous membrane of the oral cavity, this virus will definitely end up everywhere, including the eyes. Therefore, it is very important for young children with herpes of the lips to instill special drops into the eyes, for example, Ophthalmoferon.

Repeated outbreaks of ocular herpes –

Repeated cases of the disease usually manifest as epithelial keratitis (damage to the surface of the cornea). Epithelial keratitis is manifested by lacrimation, photophobia, and a feeling of a foreign body in the eye. But the most important diagnostic criterion is the formation of a corneal defect in the form of tree branches (which is why epithelial keratitis is often also called tree-like or serpentine). This form of keratitis usually heals without a trace in 1-2 weeks.

Herpes on the eye: photo of epithelial keratitis

In some cases, herpetic lesions may occur not only on the surface of the cornea, but also on its deeper layers (stroma), which indicates the development of stromal keratitis. The latter is divided into disc keratitis - in this case, the main diagnostic criterion will be the appearance in the cornea of ​​the eye of a disc-shaped area of ​​turbidity and swelling. With disc keratitis, there is no stromal necrosis.

The second form of stromal keratitis is necrotizing keratitis, which occurs with necrosis of the corneal stroma. Visually, areas of necrosis look like a whitish-turbid infiltrate in the corneal stroma (can occur with or without damage to the corneal epithelium). There can be only one large infiltrate, or multiple small infiltrates. The development of such necrosis is usually associated with a pathological reaction of the patient's immune system.

Complaints of patients with stromal keratitis -

• severe pain,
• blurred vision,
• sensitivity to light (photophobia),
• feeling of “sand in the eyes.”

Diagnostics -

The diagnosis is made by an ophthalmologist. As a rule, an examination with a special slit lamp is sufficient, but in controversial cases, a microbiological examination (viral culture) can sometimes be prescribed. It is very important to distinguish eye herpes caused by the herpes simplex virus types HSV-1 and HSV-2 from the HSV-3 virus that causes herpes zoster (which also affects the eyes).

Herpes on the eye: treatment and prevention

Treatment tactics will depend on whether the eye infection is primary or secondary with the herpes virus, as well as on the severity of the symptoms. Herpes on the eye - treatment in a child in the first case of the disease (provided that only symptoms of conjunctivitis are observed) - is possible with the help of the drug Oftalmoferon. Regimen – 1-2 drops 8 times a day (until the symptoms go away). If we are talking about a young child, then in parallel it can be used in the form of candles.

If, in addition to conjunctivitis, herpes occurs on the eyelid, treatment in addition to Oftalmoferon drops should include 5% cream with Acyclovir. Acyclovir cream at 5% concentration can be applied only to the eyelids and skin around the eyes. If epithelial keratitis has developed, then you need to keep in mind that only a special eye ointment with 3% Acyclovir can be applied to the lower eyelid.

With moderate clinical manifestations, the above drugs are enough to cope with new-onset ocular herpes. However, in very rare cases, newborns may have very severe clinical manifestations. In this case, an emergency consultation with an ophthalmologist and treatment with systemic antiviral drugs are needed.

Treatment of repeated outbreaks of herpes –

As we said above, with repeated outbreaks of ocular herpes, epithelial or stromal keratitis develops. With adequate treatment, epithelial keratitis resolves within 1-2 weeks and ends with complete healing. However, in the absence of proper treatment, in approximately 25% of patients, epithelial keratitis transforms into stromal keratitis (which in turn can lead to scarring of the cornea and sometimes even loss of vision).

1. Local treatment –

Epithelial keratitis can be easily treated with local remedies. In Europe and the USA, 2 drugs are approved for this purpose. Firstly - 0.15% Ganciclovir gel (according to the scheme - 5 times a day / i.e. every 3 hours). Secondly, a 1% solution of Trifluridine in the form of drops (according to the scheme - 9 times a day / every 2 hours after waking up). The problem is that these modern drugs are not available to Russians, because... We simply don't sell them.

Therefore, there is only one alternative - this is Acyclovir 3% eye ointment. There is an original drug - Zovirax (Great Britain) - at a price of 280 rubles per 4.5 g tube. Or, as an alternative, you can use an inexpensive Russian-made ointment (manufacturer Sintez, Kurgan) - at a price of 120 rubles per 5 g tube.

Application diagram –
Eye ointment for adults and children is placed in the lower conjunctival sac (behind the lower eyelid) - 5 times a day at intervals of 4 hours. Each time, a 10 mm strip of ointment is used for this. Treatment lasts as long as there are symptoms + another 3 days after healing.

Treatment of stromal keratitis –

For stromal keratitis, topical glucocorticoids may be prescribed. Please note that they cannot be used for epithelial keratitis! But in stromal cases they should be used in combination with antiviral agents. For example, a 1% prednisolone solution can be used. At the first stage of treatment - every 2 hours, with a subsequent increase in the interval - up to 4-8 hours. An alternative drug to prednisolone is 0.1% dexamethasone solution.

You also need to monitor intraocular pressure and, if it increases, prescribe appropriate treatment. To treat concomitant photophobia, a 1% atropine solution or a 0.25% scopolamine solution can be used (both drugs - 3 times a day). Remember that glucocorticoids should never be used without a doctor’s prescription.

2. Systemic treatment –

In some cases, either tablet forms may be prescribed - or acyclovir in the form of intravenous infusions. The effective dosage of acyclovir for children over 2 years of age and adults is 400 mg taken 5 times a day. For children under 2 years old - 200 mg 5 times a day. Valacyclovir is prescribed - 1000 mg 2 times a day. The duration of therapy in each case is 3 weeks (21 days).

Treatment of immunocompromised adults is carried out with an increased dosage of acyclovir up to 800 mg (5 times a day, for 3-4 weeks), or an intravenous form of acyclovir can be used. If the herpes virus is resistant to acyclovir/valacyclovir, famciclovir 500 mg 2 times a day can be prescribed.

Ophthalmic herpes zoster –

Herpes in the eyes can be caused not only by the herpes simplex virus (Herpes simplex, types HSV-1 and HSV-2), but also by the herpes virus Herpes Zoster type HSV-3, which causes herpes zoster (synonym - shingles). When the herpes zoster virus worsens, the eyes may also be involved in the process, and herpetic eruptions occur along the 1st branch of the trigeminal nerve.

The very first symptom that appears in the prodromal stage of the disease (i.e., before the onset of herpetic eruptions) is an indication at the tip of the nose. In the acute phase of the disease, the symptoms are usually very pronounced, and also appear as rashes on the eyelids, the skin around the eyes, the skin of the forehead, and also very often on the tip of the nose. There may be very strong pain in the forehead, severe swelling of the eyelids, and photophobia.

In more than half of all cases, inflammation occurs in all tissues of the anterior and sometimes posterior parts of the eye. Eye herpes caused by Herpes Zoster can be severe and is often accompanied by scarring of the cornea. The consequences may include cataracts, glaucoma, chronic uveitis, corneal scarring, postherpetic neuralgia, etc. (all these complications impair vision).

Diagnostics -

The diagnosis is made based on the characteristic rash on the forehead, tip of the nose and eyelids, as well as on the results of an eye examination. Traces of herpes zoster in the past in the eye area can be indicated by atrophic hypopigmented lesions that have arisen at the site of past herpetic eruptions on the forehead. Herpetic lesions of the forehead and skin around the eyes, which have not yet spread to the eyeball, indicate a high risk and require urgent consultation with an ophthalmologist.

Treatment -

The basis of treatment for ophthalmic herpes zoster is tableted antiviral drugs (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir). In some cases, it is advisable to use local glucocorticoids, for example, 1% prednisolone solution or 0.1% dexamethasone solution.

Treatment with acyclovir in children over 2 years of age and adults should be carried out according to the regimen - 800 mg orally 5 times a day (for 7-10 days). Use in adults: famciclovir - 500 mg 3 times a day (7 days in total), valacyclovir - 1000 mg 3 times a day (7 days in total). It has been noted that the pain syndrome is significantly less when using valciclovir and famciclovir, but these drugs will be much more expensive.

In patients with a weakened immune system or neurological complications requiring hospitalization, intravenous acyclovir is usually used at a rate of 10 mg/kg body weight, infusion every 8 hours (for 7-10 days). If there is no effect of treatment with acyclovir in such patients, Foscarnet is used at the rate of 40 mg/kg, every 8 hours until all lesions are healed.

Prevention of herpes –

• try not to come into contact with people who have active herpetic rashes,
• strengthen your immunity,
• wash your hands regularly,
• if you have herpes on your lip, wash your towels regularly, and also change your pillowcase after each use (especially in children), otherwise there is a high risk of herpes spreading from the lip to the eye area,
• when a herpetic form of stomatitis occurs in children, it is advisable to prophylactically instill Oftalmoferon into the eyes (since they very often lick their fingers and then rub their eyes with them),
• do not use any personal belongings of a person with herpes,
• Use sunscreen on your face and lip balm containing zinc oxide if you plan to be in the sun for long periods of time.

For patients with severe, recurrent outbreaks of herpes, vaccination may be an option. The Russian vaccine “Vitagerpavak” is intended for the prevention of herpes types 1 and 2. This is a new vaccine, and it is still difficult to say for sure the degree of its effectiveness, but for patients with frequent outbreaks, we would recommend it as one of the preventative options. We hope that our article: Herpes on the eye photo, treatment and symptoms was useful to you!

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One of the most unpleasant diseases of the mucous membranes is herpes. And herpes in front of the eyes is one of the most dangerous manifestations of this disease. Ophthalmoherpes, if left untreated, can lead to unpleasant consequences, which is why it is important to consult a specialist in time for treatment recommendations.

Causes and symptoms of ocular herpes

Herpes is a viral disease and is most often transmitted by airborne droplets. It can also be contracted through household means through dishes and personal belongings. A person with a weakened immune system is more likely to become infected.

Most often, children living in large groups - schools and kindergartens - suffer from herpes. There is a high probability of infection in a newborn child through the infected genital tract of the mother.

The causes of herpes in the eye can be:

The herpes virus can be present in every person's body, but it is more likely to occur in a person with reduced immunity. Ocular herpes is caused by viruses types 1 and 2, as well as chickenpox.

Herpes of the eye on the eyelid rarely occurs as a primary disease; most often it is provoked by various factors, which gives rise to herpes of various forms.

Depending on the cause and form of the disease, the symptoms of herpes in the eyes are expressed differently. If the primary disease is conjunctivitis, then herpes may not be accompanied by blistering rashes, but only redness, itching and increased tearing of the eyes. The virus can affect the trigeminal nerve.

Damage to the optic nerve is characterized by:

1. Severe pain in the eye sockets.
2. Pain occurs when moving the eyes and eyelids.
3. Dizziness, headache.
4. Blurred vision.
5. The appearance of a blind spot in the field of view.

If herpes under the eye occurs against the background of shingles, the following symptoms occur:

1. Pain in the affected area.
2. The appearance of bubbles, which subsequently burst and form crusts.
3. Fever, weakness.
4. Headaches.
5. Itching and burning at the site of the rash.

If herpes occurs in the eyes, it is necessary to prevent the addition of a bacterial infection. Do not scratch the rash or use non-sterile wipes for compresses.

Symptoms of herpes in the eyes of viral origin:

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1. Increased tearing.
2. Intolerance to bright light.
3. Discomfort and foreign body sensation.
4. Redness of the eyelids.

Herpes on the cornea - keratitis - is most often of an infectious or traumatic nature. Symptoms of herpes keratitis:

1. Blistering eruptions along the trigeminal nerve.
2. Ruptures of the vesicles are accompanied by pain.
3. Reduced sensitivity of the cornea.

With deep lesions on the cornea, erosions and ulcers occur, which can lead to iridocyclitis - inflammation of the iris. Its symptoms:

• purulent discharge from the eyes;
• change in pupil shape;
• pain and stinging in the eyes.

Keratitis may also be accompanied by retinal damage.

Symptoms:

1. A sharp decrease in vision, especially in poor lighting.
2. Hazyness and double vision before the eyes.
3. The appearance of bright flashes and sparks.
4. Twitching and spasms of the eye muscles.

Lack of proper treatment can lead to complete loss of vision. The rarest complication of herpes is choreoretinitis - inflammation in the retina of the eye, which always leads to loss of vision. Most often it affects people with impaired immune system function. How to treat herpes in the eyes depends on the form of the disease.

Drug treatment

An ophthalmologist treats herpes on the eye. Only a specialist after examination will tell you how to treat ophthalmoherpes. Drug therapy is aimed at suppressing the virus, relieving inflammation and healing rashes.

With unadvanced forms and properly selected treatment, recovery occurs very quickly. For deep lesions of the cornea, retina and other parts of the eye area, surgical, plastic or laser surgery is necessary.

If a small area of ​​eye tissue is affected by the virus, the use of local medications is sufficient. Antiviral ointments are well tolerated and quickly suppress the spread of infection:

Ointments should be applied to the eyes with cleanly washed hands to avoid causing additional infection.

In addition to ointments, antiviral and immunomodulating drops are prescribed:

1. Oftalmoferon, Poludan, Actipol, Oftan Idu are antiviral drops that promote the production of interferon, relieve inflammation and reduce itching. The dosage and duration of administration are prescribed by the doctor.
2. To relieve inflammation and as a local anesthetic, drops are used: Okomistin, Okoferon, Miramistin. They are instilled 3 times a day, the minimum course is 5 days, then as prescribed by the doctor.
3. Indocollir, Diclof - relieve pain, instill drops 3-4 times a day.

In case of serious lesions and when herpes on the eye is accompanied by the appearance of a rash in other parts of the body, antiviral drugs are prescribed for internal use: Acyclovir, Gerpetad, Acik.

Treatment of eye herpes should be combined with the use of immunostimulating agents: Cycloferon, Viferon, Polyoxidonium. And vitamin complexes with a high content of vitamins B, A, E, C.

When herpes on the eyelid is accompanied by a bacterial infection, local antibacterial drugs should be used: Tetracycline and Erythromycin ointments, Levomycytin drops Sodium Sulfacyt, Tsiprolet, Tsipromed.

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To relieve itching and burning, antihistamines are prescribed: Loratadine, Suprastin, Cetrin, Zodak.

To avoid complications and quickly cure herpes, you must consult a doctor in a timely manner and follow all recommendations. It is possible that the doctor will prescribe not only medications, but also advise how to carry out treatment using traditional methods.

Unconventional methods

Treatment of eye herpes with home remedies is aimed at relieving the feeling of burning and itching, and should be accompanied by therapy with pharmaceutical drugs.

The following products are used to wash the eyes:

To rinse the eye, you need to lie on your side and, with a well-moistened cotton pad, move it from the outer to the inner corner of the eye.

Do not wash both eyes with the same disc!

For rinsing, you can use syringes without a needle and small syringes. For treatment with folk remedies, you must use only sterile wipes and accessories. After each procedure, they must be thoroughly washed and disinfected.

To relieve inflammation and speed up healing of ulcers, compresses are used:

To make a compress, you should take a sterile bandage, fold it in four and moisten it in a warm infusion. Apply 2-3 times a day for 15 minutes.

The interval between compresses and instillation of medicinal drops into the eyes should be at least 1 hour. During the treatment of herpes on the eyelids, it is necessary to raise the immunity of the entire body. You need to drink cranberry juice, tea with honey and lemon, and brew echinacea.

Prevention

In order to reduce the risk of herpes on the eyelids, you should maintain personal hygiene and avoid contact with carriers of the infection.

Only a specialist knows how to treat eye herpes, so you should not self-medicate!

Eye herpes is a fairly serious disease, and only a specialist should treat it. To avoid relapses, you should adhere to medical prescriptions and not interrupt the course of treatment at the first improvements.

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• itching, burning, tingling sensation...
• rashes in the form of blisters that can appear on the lips, mucous membranes of the nose and mouth, on the genitals and on the body...
• fatigue, drowsiness...
• lack of interest in life, depression...
• headaches...

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Herpes in humans is diverse in its manifestations.

For some, it injures the mucous membrane, for others, but the occurrence of herpes in front of the eyes is considered extremely dangerous.

If the virus has infected the cornea, keratitis begins to appear. Because of them, a person’s vision deteriorates. Herpes on the eye can occur in both adults and women.

If you do not treat the disease, then in a year it can move from a state of remission to an exacerbation stage up to 4-5 times.

Herpes on the eye in adults and children is caused by the same pathogens:

• the first type of herpes simplex virus;
• varicella virus.

Also, some researchers believe that the occurrence of the disease in the eyes is associated with viruses 2 and 2, but there is no 100% confirmation of this.

If everything is fine with the eyes, then the tears contain immunoglobulins. Once the virus penetrates the cornea and mucosa, they begin to generate interferons that block the spread of the virus.

If the infection is latent, then killer T-cells appear in the blood, purposefully destroying the affected cells.

Therefore, the development of the virus can only occur in the event of a long-term decrease in immunity. Herpes in the eyes can appear after injury, hypothermia, or long-term drug treatment with corticosteroids.

Most often, preschool-age children and primary schoolchildren become infected this way, because are constantly in large groups with a low level of hygiene.

Also, due to the external manifestation of the virus (), infants can become infected during childbirth.

Regardless of the reasons for its appearance, ocular herpes develops in the corneal epithelium. It collects in keratocides and then ruptures the membrane.

After this, the virus comes out and begins infecting neighboring cells. During the exit, corneal cells and cells of other tissues are destroyed, which is accompanied by scaly peeling.

The more the virus grows, the more the human immune system suffers. In 60% of cases, lack of treatment leads to the appearance of autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms of the disease

Many people find out what herpes looks like before their eyes by studying photos on the Internet. And they mistakenly make this diagnosis for themselves, without even trying to find out its symptoms or consult a doctor.

Many of the symptoms of ocular herpes are similar to bacterial infection or allergy syndromes.

The patient experiences redness in the area around the eyes, tears constantly flow, light causes irritation, and a feeling is formed that there is some kind of debris in the eyes.

If the retina is affected, in addition to the listed signs, patients notice:

1. decreased visual acuity in the evening and at night;
2. the appearance of sparks and flashes before the eyes;
3. split image;
4. distortion of object shapes and dimensions;
5. blurred vision;
6. involuntary contractions of the eye.

If the peripheral optic nerves are affected by the disease, severe pain appears above the eyebrows and in the orbit. It is unpleasant to move the eyes and dark spots may appear.

The temperature becomes slightly elevated, and there is almost constant migraine and nausea.

With such serious symptoms of herpes in the eyes, treatment should begin immediately.

Acyclovir can be used as a preventative measure at home. But you still can’t do without the help of an ophthalmologist and therapist.

How dangerous is this disease?

The herpes virus that affects the eyes can bring many problems to the carrier. If treatment is not started, the cornea of ​​the eye becomes cloudy, vision becomes less sharp, and the retina detaches.

Some patients develop glaucoma and cataracts.

Such significant problems develop due to relapses of ocular herpes, which patients mistake for a common allergy. From an aesthetic point of view, ocular herpes is dangerous due to the appearance of scars under the eyes.

Diagnosis of viral eye infection

80% of eye diseases have the same symptoms, which makes it difficult to quickly diagnose them and create a treatment plan. To identify the disease, the doctor must:

1. examine the skin of the eyelids for herpetic rashes;
2. check visual acuity (often it is greatly reduced);
3. test the patient's visual boundaries;
4. check the sensitivity of the cornea;
5. examine the posterior/anterior parts of the eyeball;
6. examine the fundus to identify existing infections.

A number of laboratory tests are also carried out. Only after them the diagnosis is determined. A general blood test, a scraping from inflammation, and a smear from the cornea are taken from the patient.

This is required in order to identify the type of virus, the activity of the immune system, and the number of antibodies produced by the body.

Methods for treating ocular herpes

The duration of therapy and its features will depend on the severity of the disease and the degree of damage to the eye.

If symptoms indicate a superficial infection, treatment of herpes consists of eliminating the virus and its manifestations.

If herpes is on the eye, then specialized drops are prescribed, and to treat the eyelid they are used.

If the disease has taken an aggressive form, doctors prescribe specialized therapy, including injections of antiviral drugs.

Treatment of herpes is considered more successful if the patient:

• resorts to nonspecific immunotherapy;
• undergoes specific immunotherapy.

Combining different medications gives a faster effect. If the virus has penetrated deep into the structure of the eye, the patient undergoes surgery.

This is necessary in order to limit or completely eliminate the lesion.

To reduce the manifestation of syndromes, patients are prescribed painkillers, decongestants, vitamins and dietary supplements, and absorbable drops.

For nonspecific correction of immunity, immunoglobulins and interferonogenesis inducers are used. These include Interferon Alpha, Pyrogenal, Amiksin.

Specific correction of immunity involves the introduction of specialized interferon (determined by the stage of the disease).

If the herpes has penetrated deeply, then doctors administer mydriatics and anti-allergy drugs.

For inflammation of the peripheral optic nerves, therapy is supplemented with drugs that nourish tissues and improve blood supply.

Acyclovir

The herpes virus is perfectly eliminated by acyclovir. This drug belongs to the budget group, maintaining its relevance for almost 30 years. It is available in the form of ointment and.

If the herpes virus is concentrated on the eyebrows, then use 5% ointment. It is applied to the skin 4 times a day. The procedures take 10-14 days.

In the same way, you can treat herpes concentrated in the under-eye space and on the upper eyelid.

In addition to applying the ointment, patients need to take 400 mg tablets 5 times a day. The course of taking the medicine is 10 days.

All this is required in order to quickly get rid of the manifestations of the virus. Acyclovir can be given to children at 12 months of age. The dosage of the medicine is reduced several times.

Personal hygiene comes first when fighting herpes. It is important not only for the patient himself, but also for the people living with him in the same apartment.

Herpes on the human body can manifest itself in different ways. The most dangerous option is herpes in the eyes. Ophthalmoherpes is not dangerous in itself, its consequences are much more terrible - keratitis, that is damage to the cornea, leading to weakened vision and even blindness. It is the herpes virus that is the most common cause of keratitis, especially if it is recurrent. Without proper treatment, herpes affects more and more eye tissue, which means vision loss becomes inevitable.

Causes of ophthalmoherpes

More often The cause of herpes on the eye is the herpes simplex virus or herpes zoster virus(chickenpox), although the herpes virus can cause herpetic eye lesions 2 types(genital), cytomegalovirus and herpes virus 6 types(causing roseola). All of the listed types of virus are integrated into the cells of the body, where the formation of new viral particles occurs.

Note

The virus enters the body through the oral mucosa, respiratory system or sexual intercourse. You can become infected with herpes by sharing the same dishes or towel with a sick person. The virus first lives in epithelial tissue, then moves into the blood and lymph, through which it spreads throughout the body.

For the time being, the body resists viruses, as it is protected by the immune system. If the virus enters the mucous membrane of the eye, the interferon produced by the mucous membrane prevents it from spreading. Also, the tissues of the eye are protected by immunoglobulins contained in the tear fluid. The virus that causes herpes in the eyes can “sleep” in the nerve ganglia for a very long time.

If for some reason the immunity decreases, the herpes virus strengthens and manifests itself in the form of ophthalmic herpes. A decrease in immunity occurs as a result of the following situations:

• hypothermia;
• prolonged exposure to the sun;
• infectious diseases;
• stress;
• eye injuries;
• the use of certain medications (immunosuppressants, cytostatics, etc.);
• pregnancy.

The virus, “sleeping” until this moment, “wakes up” and comes to the surface in the form of characteristic bubbles. This type of disease development is called endogenous. The exogenous route is when infection occurs directly through herpes blisters - the liquid from them, containing viruses in high concentrations, enters the mucous membrane of the eyes, resulting in ophthalmoherpes infection occurs. This route is especially typical for children who play together and can infect each other through direct touch.

Herpes on the eyes - symptoms

Eye herpes can be confused with allergies or diseases caused by bacteria ( conjunctivitis, blepharitis or bacterial keratitis). All inflammatory eye diseases - including herpes - are accompanied by the following symptoms:

• soreness;
• distortion and impairment of visual acuity, especially at dusk;
• photophobia;
• lacrimation.

Local symptoms may be supplemented by general ones - headache, nausea, swollen lymph nodes and fever.

Specific symptoms of herpes on the eyes, by which it can be distinguished from other diseases:

• severe burning and itching of the skin on the eyelids and around the eyes;
• the appearance of bubbles with liquid inside, which then burst and ulcerate.

Forms of herpes

Ophthalmoherpes differs from other types of herpes in a large number of manifestations, and symptoms during relapses can vary greatly. Depending on the damage to the tissues of the eye, the following main forms of herpes on the eyes are distinguished:

How to identify herpes

The symptoms of eye colds, as herpes is often called, are similar to those of other diseases. Makes an accurate diagnosis ophthalmologist, who performs a slit-lamp examination, which reveals ulcerations and other corneal lesions, as well as inflammation of the ocular vessels. Also in hospital settings scraping of cells from the affected mucous membrane or skin is carried out, which is studied using a fluorescent microscope.

Note

Another diagnostic method is an enzyme immunoassay, which can detect the presence of antibodies to the virus.

The listed diagnostic methods are required for damage to the cornea and blood vessels. As a rule, herpetic lesions of the mucous membrane of the eyes and skin of the eyelids are noticeable even without a medical examination. Herpes on the eyelid is characterized by multiple rashes in the form of small bubbles with lymph - a liquid that gradually becomes cloudy. The blisters are painful and very itchy. If you scratch the sore, it spreads even more.

How dangerous is herpes in the eyes?

If herpes is localized on the surface, then adequate treatment can get rid of it without negative consequences. If deeper tissues are affected, the following consequences are possible:

• corneal clouding;
• decreased visual acuity;
• retinal hemorrhages;
• retinal detachment (complete or partial);
• cataract;
• glaucoma;
• retinal death;
• complete loss of vision.

Serious vision problems do not arise, of course, from primary herpes, but if it is not treated, it will recur, each time affecting the deeper structures of the eye, which will lead to irreversible consequences.

Herpes on a child's eye

In childhood, risk factors for the manifestation of herpes in the eyes are hypothermia, overheating, excessive exposure to the sun, stress, hormonal changes in the body, vaccinations, and microtrauma to the eye. Children often ophthalmoherpes is accompanied by herpetic rashes on the lips. In addition to the appearance of blisters on the eyelids and lips, you need to pay attention to the following symptoms:

• redness of the eye;
• lacrimation;
• itching of the eyelids;
• eye pain;
• feeling of sand in the eyes.

All these symptoms indicate the development of herpes in the eyes. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor. As first aid before seeing a doctor, you can use Oftalmoferon drops to relieve discomfort and suppress the activity of the virus.

Attention

Self-medication for herpes in children is strictly forbidden! Incorrectly selected therapy or lack of treatment will lead to serious problems, including loss of vision.

Particular attention should be paid to the prevention of herpes in front of a child. To do this, you need to lead a healthy lifestyle, follow a daily routine, get enough sleep, not be overcooled and not overworked. It is worth taking vitamins seasonally; special complexes for the eyes containing blueberry extract are especially useful.

Treatment of herpes in the eyes

How to treat a cold on the eye? It depends on the form of the disease. If only superficial tissues are affected, there will be enough medicine to relieve discomfort and suppress the activity of the virus.

There are four types of drugs that are used in combination to treat herpes on the eyes:

• antiviral;
• immunomodulatory agents;
• specific immunotherapy drugs (herpes vaccine);
• symptomatic remedies: vitamins, painkillers, decongestants, etc.

If the deep tissues of the eye are affected, Only surgery will help: coagulation(thermal or laser), keratoplasty and other types of operations that will localize or remove the affected tissue.

Antiviral agents for the treatment of herpes on the eyes

The mucous membrane of the eye is different from the skin, therefore, to apply medications to it, forms are used that do not irritate the mucous membrane. To suppress the activity of the herpes virus, eye ointments and drops, as well as tablets and injections, are used.

The most effective drugs for treating herpes on the eyes:

• Acyclovir– in this form of the disease it is taken orally in the form of tablets (0.2 grams up to 5 times a day), and ointment is also applied topically. You can use Zovirax or Virolex;
• Valaciclovir– for the treatment of ophthalmic herpes, only tablets are used, for example, Valtrex 0.5 grams twice a day. Once in the human body, valacyclovir is converted into acyclovir, which is most active against the herpes virus;
• Oftan-IDU (idoxuridine, keratsin, etc.)- This is a special drug for the treatment of herpes in the eyes. Available in the form of drops containing a thymine analogue. The drug prevents the virus from multiplying and suppresses its activity. Drops are instilled frequently - every hour. With prolonged use, the drug can lead to damage to the cornea;
• TFT (trifluorothymidine)– another drops similar to Oftan-IDU, but having a less toxic effect;
• Vidarabin– gel against ocular herpes, which is applied to the conjunctiva up to five times a day;
• Tebrofen, riodoxol, bonaftone- ointments against herpes, they are applied to the skin of the eyelids affected by herpes and placed behind the eyelids.

Immune drugs in the treatment of ophthalmoherpes

Herpes is a sign of decreased immunity, which is why immunocorrection is carried out for herpetic rashes, for which interferon and immunoglobulin preparations are used.

Immunoglobulins for nonspecific therapy for herpes - interlock and interferon-alpha, as well as reaferon:

1. Interlock and interferon-alpha– these are drugs in the form of drops based on donor blood, which contain leukocyte human interferons. They modify cell membranes, so that the virus does not penetrate them.
2. Reaferon– a synthetic preparation of a bacterial nature containing human interferon. A product in the form of drops for instillation into the eye. It can also be injected into the area around the eye.

In addition to immunoglobulin preparations, interferon inducers are used:

• poludan;
• levamisole;
• amiksin;
• lycopid;
• cycloferon;
• Thymalin.

These drugs can be taken as tablets and also as injections, in some cases injections are given periocular, that is directly into the eye. Thanks to taking these drugs, the production of the human body's own interferon increases. And while taking immunoglobulins can cause allergies, interferon inducers have virtually no side effects.

Herpes vaccine

A herpes vaccine has been developed from inactivated herpes simplex and herpes type 2 viruses. The vaccine is administered for recurrent ophthalmoherpes strictly during the period without exacerbation of the disease, the vaccine can be repeated no earlier than six months later. Vaccines on the market from different manufacturers, the most famous of which are Vitagerpevac and Gerpovax made in Russia, as well as Gerpevak made in Belgium.

Also, for specific immunocorrection for herpes in the eyes, antiherpetic interferon is used in the form of an ointment, which is applied topically. Herpferon consists from recombinant interferon and 3% acyclovir Thus, the drug blocks the action of the virus and protects healthy cells from it.

Concomitant medications

Herpetic eye infection is often accompanied by pain and cramping. Used to relieve spasms mydriatics (Atropine, Irifrin and others). Also, in case of serious damage to eye tissue, it is prescribed antiseptics and antibiotics.

Bacterial infections are often added to herpes. Antiseptics and antibiotics are used to treat this complication. Most effective for treating concomitant infections cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones. Antibiotics are administered by injection or in the form of drops; tetracycline and erythromycin ointment are also used.

Attention!

Antibiotics should not be taken without a doctor’s prescription and bacteriological examination!

Herpetic eye lesions - especially complex ones - are treated with a large number of drugs, which can cause an allergic reaction. To warn her, usually antihistamines such as Suprastin, Tavegil are prescribed etc.

Prescribed for a speedy recovery vitamin preparations, as well as agents that increase blood supply to the eye. These are nicotinic acid, vitamins A, C, group B, pentoxifylline.

Folk remedies

The mucous membrane of the eye is a very delicate tissue, which is undesirable to be exposed to irritating substances. Effective A folk remedy for the treatment of herpes on the eyes is garlic juice., but I can’t recommend it to everyone. The individual reaction of the eye can be unpredictable.

It is better to use softer means:

• infusion of marshmallow flowers - for washing the eyes, the infusion is prepared from 2 tablespoons of dried flowers, brewed with a glass of boiling water;
• honey with water in a ratio of 1 to 2 – drop into the eyes;
• a compress of fresh dill juice relieves inflammation;
• gruel of grated fresh potatoes - this lotion relieves pain and burning;
• infusion of rose hips - used for eye washes and compresses, relieves inflammation and pain;
• aloe juice diluted with water (1:10) is dropped into the eye and used for compresses.

It is worth considering that folk remedies are designed to alleviate the patient’s condition, but they do not cure the disease. They cannot resist the virus. Therefore, you cannot use only folk remedies.

Prevention of herpes in the eyes

Herpes in front of the eyes is dangerous due to its frequent relapses. Therefore, it is important to prevent the virus from spreading.

To prevent herpes from being transmitted to other people, it is important:

• maintain personal hygiene,
• use individual dishes and towels,
• Avoid direct contact with the patient.

Note

A person prone to the manifestations of herpes in the eyes should lead a healthy lifestyle, avoid hypothermia or overheating in the sun, and not overwork.

To strengthen the immune system, and therefore to prevent herpes, walking in the fresh air and physical exercise, hardening, proper nutrition and taking multivitamins are useful. At the first manifestations of herpes in the eyes, you should consult a doctor and select adequate therapy to prevent the development of the herpes virus in the body and complex eye lesions.

Health problems associated with it occur in 90% of people.

The rash appears all over the body, including the eyes.

In the case where blisters appear above the eye, it is necessary to take emergency measures, since ophthalmoherpes is considered one of the serious forms of the disease that can significantly impair vision.

In 85% of recorded requests, the presence of an inflammatory process on the cornea is noted - in this case, a diagnosis is made. can be repeated up to 5 times during the year, so it is important to follow the recommendations. If the disease is not treated for a long time, the inflammatory process penetrates into the deep eye tissues, which can lead to loss of vision.

Infectious agents

Complications and prevention

You need to know the difference. Herpes can appear after or overheating in the sun.

An untreated cold can also start the process. Reduced immunity and eye injuries are common factors leading to the disease. Symptoms of infection are common, but rashes near the eyelids or above the lip are also present.

Itching and lacrimation are stronger than in adults. Treatment should be ointment, suppositories and drops according to age.

If treatment is not carried out or interrupted, complications may occur. These include a decrease in visual acuity and clarity, and the appearance of pain, especially when looking at bright light. Sometimes complete blindness occurs.

As an effective preventive measure, special means are used to prevent the development of infection, as well as general measures to strengthen the body’s immunity, since it is the main factor in preventing the activation of the herpes virus.

Hardening and moderate physical activity are effective.