1. Antiviral Eye Drops
One effect way to treat eye herpes is through the use of antiviral eye drops. These special eye drops are available through prescription only and are very effective for eliminating and controlling eye herpes. If a patient is unable to use the antiviral eye drops, then doctors can prescribe an antiviral oral medication. This medication works well in most cases; however, because of the uniqueness of this disease, it has to be treated case by case and the antiviral medications may not be as effective in some patients as it is in other patients.
2. Debridement or Eye Scraping
Another way to treat eye herpes is through debridement. This is a procedure that is performed by the doctor. It involves scraping away the infected corneal epithelial cells from the eye using a cotton swab or a special tool known as a corneal spatula. This procedure can be a little painful or irritating and patients usually have to wear an eye patch until the cornea is able to heal completely.
3. Steroid Drops
Steroid drops are a good way to decrease ocular inflammation (swelling of the eye). They also prevent corneal scarring. Many times, a doctor will prescribe steroid drops with the antiviral drops. There are many side effects associated with the use of steroids in the eye. Patients should take them as directed and report any unusual side effects to their doctor immediately.
4. Surgical treatment
In some extreme cases, the methods of treatment prescribed by the doctor do not work. Therefore, surgery could be required. A doctor will recommend surgery if the eye herpes causes scarring in the cornea or if the prescribed medications have not been effective in controlling the disease. If it is discovered that the eye herpes has caused permanent scarring in the cornea, a cornea replacement may be required to restore normal vision.
5. Curing Eye Herpes
Currently, there is no cure for eye herpes. The medications and methods of treatment control the outbreaks of the disease only. The use of medication can also prevent blindness or other eye problems from occurring. Eye herpes are contagious and should be monitored under the care of a doctor. Avoid coming into contact with infected people. Many researchers are currently working on studies on new methods to better control the outbreak and spread of eye herpes.
