Ocular herpes, or herpes infection of the eye, is usually caused by herpes simplex I, a common virus that produces sores on the mouth. It may also be caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the virus that causes chickenpox. Ocular herpes and herpes zoster infections affect the eyelids, conjunctiva and cornea. People whose immune systems are suppressed are especially vulnerable to recurrent ocular herpes infections. Typical symptoms of ocular herpes are listed below.
Keratitis
Keratitis is a swelling of the cornea, and, according to St. Luke's Clinic, it's usually one of the first symptoms of ocular herpes. Symptoms include pain, corneal discharge and reduced visual acuity. Severe cases may cause some erosion of the cornea. Commonly treated with antibacterial or antifungal drops keratitis may require corneal transplantation if corneal thinning has occurred.
Herpes keratitis is an infection of the epithelium, the cornea's top layer. This is the most common type of ocular herpes infection and generally leaves no scars. Stromal keratitis is an infection of the stroma, the cornea's middle layer. This is a more serious type of keratitis that can cause scarring and permanent visual damage including blindness.
Uveitis
Uveitis is an inflammation of the uveal tract that includes the iris, ciliary body and choroid. Herpes may infect the iris--a condition known as iridocyclitis--allowing it to then spread and infect the entire uvea. Symptoms of uveitis include eye ache and redness, light sensitivity, decreased vision and floaters. Both herpes simplex and zoster-varicella are known causes of anterioir uveitis which is localized to the anterior segment of the eye.
Uveitis may occur with or without accompanying herpes retinitis, a potentially serious infection that affects the retina at the back of the eye.
Pain, Discharge and Redness
Viral infections usually differ from bacterial infections (such as staph) in that they produce a watery discharge, while bacterial infections typically produce a sticky, mucous-like discharge. Ocular herpes infections commonly produce a watery discharge from the infected eye(s). The eye also usually appears red and irritated and will often feel scratchy and painful.
Decreased Corneal Sensitivity
Herpes zoster infections may cause a decrease of corneal sensitivity in the eye. This loss of sensitivity is characterized by a lack of sensation when foreign debris such as dust, dirt or an eyelash enter the eye.
Light Sensitivity and Blurred Vision
Individuals with ocular herpes infections may experience discomfort around bright lights. Depending upon the severity of the infection and area of the eye most affected by the virus, they may also experience some blurred or decreased vision in the effected eye(s).
