eye disorders
Herpes Simplex Keratitis
Symptoms of Herpes Simplex Keratitis
Symptoms ofprimary(first) herpes simplex eye infections usually resemble those of common conjunctivitis, so the diagnosis of herpes simplex infection is not made. Symptoms of areactivationinclude tearing, redness, a feeling like a foreign object is in the eye (foreign body sensation), and sensitivity to bright light. Rarely, the infection worsens and the cornea swells, making vision hazy. The more often the infection recurs, the more likely is further damage to the surface of the cornea. Several recurrences may result in the formation of deep ulcers, permanent scarring, blood vessels that grow onto the cornea, and numbness of the eye surface. With multiple recurrences, the herpes simplex virus can lead to significant visual impairment, which can be permanent. 