The herpes simplex virus is a common virus that affects humans, according to the University of Illinois at Chicago. It is most often known as the cause of cold sores or genital herpes. There are two forms of the virus, herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). Ocular herpes infection is most often attributed to HSV-1, according to the UIC. The virus most often affects only one eye and only the cornea. Symptoms of ocular herpes are few, but damage done after prolonged infection can be serious.
Early Vision Changes
The UIC reports that vision may become blurry from the herpes infection. The eyes may be more sensitive to light, making it difficult to tolerate extreme brightness. As the herpes disappears, the vision is often restored back to normal.
Visual Eye Changes
The eye may be red from the infection and irritation of the virus. Sores may appear on the outer edges of the cornea that may disappear in a few days, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM). Even the iris can be impacted and inflamed from the infection. Herpes.com suggests the area surrounding the eye may become infected, including the mucus membranes.
Other Symptoms
The UMM reports that sores can appear on the eyelids that can be painful and irritating. With repeated herpes outbreaks, the cornea may develop scars that can result in blindness, says the UMM. In rare cases the globe of the eye may rupture causing blindness. Herpes.com also warns that patients may have severe sensitivity to light if the iris becomes inflamed from infection.
