Not many people know this but it is actually possible for the herpes virus to spread to the carriers eyes, when this happens it is known as ocular herpes, or eye herpes in some circles. This form of herpes is a lot rarer than other types such as or oral and genital herpes.

This form of herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (also known as HSV-1 for short), this is the same virus that causes oral herpes (i.e. cold sores). This form of herpes has been given the nickname of the cold sore of the eye.

There are approximately 50, 000 new cases of ocular herpes a year in America. Around half a million Americans have had some form of eye herpes.

The most common cause of ocular herpes is the reactivation of the once dormant virus which had been hibernating in the facial nerves of the carrier. In most cases the dormant virus stays inactive, however for some unknown reason it may become active again and spread to the ocular nerves.

Fortunately ocular herpes is harmless in most cases, however its symptoms can cause discomfort, these include sensitivity to light, redness and slight pain. The herpes virus usually only affects the top layer of the cornea, and heals without scarring.

In a severe case of eye herpes the infection affects the deeper layers of the cornea, this is when it is likely to do lasting damage. Vision loss may occur and in the worst case scenario a carrier may go blind permanently. The severity of the damage that occurs all depends on how deep the virus reaches into the cornea. It is also possible for the herpes virus to infect the inside of the eye and the retina, although this is not as common. When herpes infects the inside of the eye it is known as herpes uveitis, when it affects the retina it is known herpes retinitis, both of these are very severe types of ocular herpes.

There are various treatment options for people with ocular herpes, and the method used depends on the severity of the outbreak. If the individual suffers from a minor case then a doctor may just prescribe anti viral eye drops - these actually fight the virus. Other forms of treatment involve the doctor carefully wiping away the infected cells of the cornea. Unfortunately not everyone responds well to the treatment and some people have prolonged scarring which leads to permanent vision loss.

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned in this article then you are strongly advised to seek medical help, a doctor can give you a proper diagnosis. If it does turn out to be eye herpes the doctor can then recommend the best form of treatment to fight this infection.