Herpes on the upper eyelid treatment. Herpes on the eyes: causes, symptoms, photos, treatment methods. How does herpes appear around the eye?

It can affect all organs and systems, including the eyes. The most common diseases are herpes zoster, eyelid skin lesions, conjunctivitis, keratitis, inflammation choroid(iridocyclitis and chorioretinitis), neuritis optic nerve, herpetic retinopathy, acute retinal necrosis. In the vast majority of cases, all these diseases have chronic course and often lead to complications.

Causes of herpetic eye lesions

Depending on the time of occurrence, herpes can be acquired or congenital. Herpes is caused by virus types 1, 2 and Varicella Zoster. Predisposing factors:

Hypothermia
- stress
- concomitant severe diseases that contribute to a decrease in immunity, including infectious ones
- immunodeficiency
- poor nutrition
- long-term use of antibiotics

Herpes infection is a highly contagious disease. Routes of transmission: airborne, contact, sexual, ascending (from other organs), transplacental.

Herpes zoster with manifestations in the eyes occurs when the first branch is involved in the inflammatory process trigeminal nerve. First, pain on the affected side, malaise, and body temperature may increase. Then bubbles with transparent contents appear on the reddened skin, then it becomes cloudy and crusts form, which can leave scars.

The skin of the upper eyelid and eyebrow area is affected, rarely the lower eyelid (if the 2nd branch of the nerve is affected). Regional lymph nodes enlarge and become painful. If the nervus nasociliaris is involved in the process, then characteristic rashes appear at the inner corner of the eye and on the cornea. The virus almost always affects one half of the face.

With herpes of the skin of the eyelids, severe itching and burning are observed, blisters appear on the hyperemic (reddened) skin, their contents become cloudy, then crusts form. Scratching them leaves scars.

There are 3 forms of herpetic conjunctivitis: follicular, catarrhal and vesicular ulcerative.

First type has a sluggish course, characterized by mild redness of the eyes and scanty mucous discharge. Characteristic symptoms No.

At catarrhal form complaints are more pronounced and have an acute course.

Classic manifestations vesicular herpetic conjunctivitis– rashes in the form of bubbles, the formation of crusts without scars.

Keratitis, caused by the herpes virus, is divided into tree-like, marginal, corneal erosion, discoid, bullous, metaherpetic. The symptoms of all types are similar. They are characterized by blepharospasm (impossibility to open the eyes), photophobia and lacrimation, pain. The sensitivity of the cornea decreases, which can lead to accidental injury and secondary infection. Rashes and infiltrates appear on the cornea. The most pathognomonic herpetic keratitis is dendritic. In this case, bubbles appear along the nerve fibers of the cornea. When they burst, they cause pain.

Discoid keratitis is classified as deep. A round clouding of the corneal stroma occurs. Folds of Descemet's membrane and precipitates on the endothelium may appear. Often turns into iridocyclitis. The prognosis is unfavorable, because Corneal opacities often remain.

Deep keratitis refers to keratouveitis. In these cases, the symptoms of corneal inflammation are accompanied by the symptoms of iridocyclitis.

Iridocyclitis caused by the herpes virus can occur in acute, subacute and sluggish forms. The nature of the process is serous and serous-fibrinous. Characteristic pain in acute and subacute cases, pericorneal injection of the conjunctiva, sebaceous precipitates on the endothelium of the cornea, the moisture of the anterior chamber is opalescent (if secondary flora is attached, then hypopyon), possible hyphema (red blood cells in the moisture of the anterior chamber), posterior synechiae (the pupil does not dilate or has irregular shape), the formation of adhesions between the iris and the lens or in the corner of the anterior chamber (intraocular pressure increases accordingly). The iris becomes full-blooded, swollen, its pattern is smoothed out.

Acute retinal necrosis– one of the types of chorioretinitis, possible reason considered to be a herpes virus. It occurs more often in people with immunodeficiency (for example, HIV-infected people). Symptoms: loss of vision if the central region is involved. First one eye is affected, and after a few months the second one is affected. Inflammatory foci appear, first in the periphery, then they merge, and this can lead to exudative retinal detachment. Infiltration may occur in the vitreous body. Later, strands may form, leading to tractional retinal detachment. More than half of people who experience acute retinal necrosis go blind.

Other eye diseases do not have specific manifestations herpetic infection. The presence of the virus is detected only during examination.

Diagnosis of herpes virus

To make a diagnosis you need:

Upon external examination, there may be characteristic rashes on the face and skin of the eyelids,
- visometry - vision can be sharply reduced in the presence of corneal infiltrate, chorioretinitis or optic neuritis,
- perimetry,
- analgisemetry – with herpetic infection, the sensitivity of the cornea is reduced,
- biomicroscopy, including after fluorescein staining,
- examination in transmitted light to determine the transparency of the eye media,
- ophthalmoscopy, as well as examination with a Goldmann lens to identify foci of infection in the fundus.

In most cases, the symptoms are not specific to herpes, so without laboratory confirmation, a diagnosis is impossible. One of the diagnostic methods is the determination of antibodies to the virus in scrapings from the conjunctiva using the fluorescent antibody method. IN general analysis In the blood, the level of leukocytes and lymphocytes is increased (if there is an immunodeficiency, then it is reduced); in case of primary infection, intradermal allergy tests are performed. The state of the immune status is examined for the correct prescription of immunomodulators. In fingerprint smears from the cornea and conjunctiva, the DNA of the virus can be detected using PCR.

The most reliable diagnostic method is virology (the virus is grown on chicken embryos or special nutrient media), but it is very expensive and time-consuming (up to 3 weeks), so it is used more often for scientific purposes, rather than for prescribing treatment.

Antibodies to herpes in the blood are also determined. Increased level IgG indicates a previous infection. If IgM is detected, then the process is acute. They appear on days 5-7 of the disease, so it makes no sense to test for antibodies earlier (for example, ELISA - enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay).

Consultations with a dermatovenerologist, infectious disease specialist, and neurologist are required.

Treatment of eye herpes

Treatment must be carried out under the supervision of an ophthalmologist. If the skin of the face and eyelids is affected, the blisters are lubricated with acyclovir ointment 3% 4 times a day for up to 2 weeks. To dry out inflammatory elements, it is possible to use dyes topically (brilliant green solution, iodine solution, fucorcin).

Oftan-IDA is instilled into the conjunctival sac 4 times a day for 10 days to prevent the spread of infection.

For herpes zoster and severe pain, novocaine blockades are made, and also antiherpetic drugs are taken orally for a week (Acyclovir 5 times a day, 0.2 grams, Valacyclovir, 0.5 grams 2 times a day). To speed up healing, physiotherapeutic methods of treatment (UHF, UV irradiation) are used locally.

For herpetic conjunctivitis, the following drugs are prescribed:

Antiviral drops and ointments – Oftan-IDU 1 drop 6 times a day, Okoferon 1 drop 6 times a day, Acyclovir ointment 3% 2-3 times a day
- antiseptic drops– Miramistin, Okomistin 1 drop 6 times a day
- anti-inflammatory drops – Indocollir, Naklof, Diclof 1 drop 3 times a day
- antibacterial drops when secondary bacterial flora is attached (Floxal, Tobrex, Oftaquix 1 drop up to 6 times a day)
- antihistamine drops - sodium cromoglycate or Opatanol, 1 drop 3 times a day if an allergic reaction occurs.

Treatment is long-term, at least 3-4 weeks under the supervision of an ophthalmologist.

Complications of herpes in the eyes:

spread of infection (keratitis), allergic reactions.

Herpetic keratitis is the most common viral infection affecting the eyes. Treatment is complex and carried out in a hospital setting. Approximate treatment regimen: instill 1 drop of Oftan-IDU, Okoferon, Okomistin, Floxal into the affected eye 6 times a day; 3 times a day Indocollir and Acyclovir ointment 3%. For deep keratitis, mydriatics are prescribed to prevent the occurrence of synechiae (Tropicamide, Midriacil 2-3 times a day). If the corneal epithelium is not damaged, then use hormonal drops and ointments (hydrocortisone ointment 1%, dexamethasone drops 0.1% 2-3 times a day). Some drugs are best administered subconjunctivally or parabulbarly, for example, interferon, mezaton, dexamethasone, antibiotics. Local treatment combined with general therapy: antiviral (Acyclovir 0.2 grams 5 times a day), vitamin therapy ( ascorbic acid, B vitamins). Inducers of interferon production are also shown, for example, Cycloferon according to the scheme or Amizon. If necessary, the immunologist prescribes immunomodulators. Physiotherapy accelerates the healing process: UHF, ultraviolet irradiation, magnetic therapy, laser therapy, phonophoresis.

If conservative treatment is ineffective, laser coagulation or cryotherapy of inflammatory lesions is used. Complications of keratitis: uveitis, allergic reactions, corneal opacities up to a cataract.

Treatment herpetic uveitis (iridocyclitis and chorioretinitis) requires intravenous infusion of acyclovir at a dosage of 5-10 mg/kg every 8 hours, possibly intravitreal administration of valacyclovir or famciclovir. In severe cases with proliferative changes in the vitreous body and the risk of retinal detachment, it is indicated surgical treatment– vitrectomy and laser coagulation of the affected areas of the retina. Complications: loss of vision, retinal detachment.

Prevention of herpes

Herpes affects 95% of the entire population. The virus lives in the human body and may not manifest itself, but under unfavorable conditions relapses of the disease occur. Therefore, prevention consists of strengthening the immune system, timely and comprehensive treatment of exacerbations, good nutrition And healthy way life, vaccinations during remission.

Ophthalmologist Letyuk T.Z.

Why does herpes occur near the eye? The causes of this disease will be discussed below. We will also present the symptoms of ophthalmoherpes and medications who treat this disease.

general information

Herpes (this pathology occurs infrequently on the eyelid) is viral disease. It is characterized by a rash of blisters (grouped) on the mucous membranes and skin.

The name of the term in question is of Greek origin. Translated into Russian, it means “creeping” or “rapidly spreading skin disease.”

Description of the disease

The herpes virus does not appear in the eyes as often as, for example, on the lips, in the nasal mucosa or on the genitals. At the same time, this disease is very difficult.

In addition to the listed parts of the body, the herpes virus can infect the central nervous system, which will cause the development of meningitis and encephalitis. Internal organs are also susceptible to this disease.

Types of viruses

Herpes that appears under the eye belongs to the first type. Also a virus herpes simplex may affect lips, nose and other skin areas.

In the second type of this disease, the genital areas are affected.

There are also varicella zoster virus (3 types). appears on the human body. As for such a childhood disease as chickenpox, it is observed throughout the body.

Epstein-Barr virus belongs to the fourth type. It causes an infectious disease such as mononucleosis.

Cytomegalovirus is a type 5 disease.

Causes

Why does herpes occur on the eye (treatment of this disease will be presented below)? There is a lot of debate on this matter. It is not possible to name any one reason for the occurrence of such unpleasant rashes. This is because herpes can occur due to a number of different factors.

Experts say that the virus in question is present in the body of all people. And for the time being the immune system person resists this disease. A virus that gets onto the mucous membrane of the eye spreads very rarely. This is due to the fact that the visual organs are capable of independently producing interferon, that is, proteins secreted by tissue cells in response to the invasion of harmful bacteria.

It should also be noted that the tissues of the eye are protected by so-called immunoglobulins, which are contained in the tear fluid. Herpes on the eyes, the symptoms of which will be described below, may not appear long time and “sleep” in the nerve ganglia.

If for one reason or another the human immune system is noticeably weakened, then the herpes virus begins to actively strengthen and manifest itself in the form of ophthalmic herpes.

Thus, we can safely note that the main and main reason for the development of the disease in question is reduced immunity. In connection with the above, the question arises: why does the human immune system fail so much? Doctors say that the decrease protective forces The body occurs in response to the following situations:

If one of these factors contributes to a decrease in immunity, then the herpes virus, which has been “dormant” until this moment, “wakes up” and then appears on the surface of the skin or mucous membrane in the form of grouped blisters.

It should be especially noted that this variant of the development of the disease is called endogenous. There is also an exogenous route. It is characterized by infection directly through herpetic vesicles. As you know, they contain liquid that contains viruses in high concentrations. Once on the skin or mucous membrane of the eyes, immediate infection occurs.

This path is especially typical for young children who are constantly in contact with each other.

Signs of illness

How does herpes manifest itself in the eyes? The symptoms of this disease are quite difficult to miss. Although in some cases it is confused with an allergy or a disease that is of bacterial origin (for example, conjunctivitis, blepharitis or bacterial keratitis).

It should be noted that all of the listed pathological conditions, however, like ophthalmoherpes, are accompanied by the following symptoms:

redness of the eyelid and eye;
photophobia;
soreness;
impaired visual acuity and distortion;
lacrimation.

It should also be said that local symptoms viral disease may be accompanied by general symptoms, including headache, swollen lymph nodes, nausea and elevated body temperature.

Specific symptoms

So how to identify herpes on the eye, which should only be treated by an experienced doctor? This disease also has specific symptoms. These include the following:

unbearable itching and burning of the skin on the eyelids, as well as around the eyes;
the presence of fluid-filled blisters that burst and ulcerate.

Forms of ophthalmoherpes

The disease in question is distinguished by a huge number of manifestations. However, symptoms during relapses can vary quite significantly.

Experts distinguish the following forms of ocular herpes (depending on the damage to the tissues of the visual organs):

With this disease, the conjunctiva is affected, that is, a thin film of epithelium that covers the inside of the eyelids and the eyeball. As a rule, this lesion is accompanied by redness of the entire eye.
Keratitis. This is a disease characterized by damage to the cornea, on which viral vesicles appear.
Blepharo-conjunctivitis. Unlike herpetic conjunctivitis, an inflammatory process is added to the damage to the conjunctiva, as well as the formation of blisters on the eyelids and along the eyelash line. Rashes can even appear on the inner surface of the eyelids. Usually this causes severe lacrimation, as well as sharp pain in the eye.
Keratoiridocyclitis is an inflammation of the cornea, which is accompanied by damage to blood vessels in the visual organ. This form of the disease is the most severe. It is very difficult to cure. In this case, keratoiridocyclitis repeats again and again.

Diagnosis of the disease

How to cure herpes on the eye? Treatment for this disease should be prescribed by an ophthalmologist. However, the disease must first be correctly diagnosed. This is due to the fact that the symptoms pathological condition very often confused with signs of other abnormalities.

To diagnose ocular herpes, the patient must consult an ophthalmologist. The doctor is required to examine the patient using a slit lamp. This study allows us to identify ulcerations and other lesions of the cornea, as well as inflammatory processes in the eye vessels.

Also, in stationary conditions, cells are scraped from the affected skin or mucous membrane. It will be further studied through

Another way to diagnose the disease in question is to detect whether a person has antibodies to the virus.

All of the above diagnostic methods are used only for damage to the blood vessels and cornea of the eye. As for herpetic lesions of the mucous membrane of the visual organs and the skin of the eyelids, it is noticeable even without examination.

Herpes on the eyelids is characterized by rashes (usually multiple) in the form of small blisters filled with lymph, that is, liquid that becomes cloudy over time. These blisters are very painful and itchy. Scratching the rashes will spread them further.

Ophthalmoherpes: treatment

How should ocular herpes be treated? According to experts, the type of treatment for such a disease depends on its form. If the virus has affected only superficial tissues, then medications are used that remove discomfort in the visual organs, as well as suppressing the activity of herpes.

There are 4 types of medications on the pharmaceutical market that are used for the complex treatment of ophthalmoherpes. These include the following:

immunomodulatory agents;
antiviral (for example, Zovirax ointment);
specific immunotherapy drugs (for example, herpes vaccine);
symptomatic medications, including decongestants, painkillers, vitamins, etc.

If the virus affects the deeper tissues of the eye, the patient is surgical intervention. Types of operations such as coagulation, keratoplasty and others allow you to localize or remove the affected areas.

Antiviral agents

How to eliminate herpes on the eye? Treatment of this disease is most often carried out. For this, special forms of drugs are used that are not capable of irritating the mucous membrane of the visual organs.

To suppress the excessive activity of the herpes virus, doctors recommend using eye drops and ointments. Also, for systemic exposure, patients are often prescribed antiviral injections and tablets.

What medications are most effective in treating ophthalmoherpes? Experts highlight the following drugs:

"Acyclovir". For eye damage, the medication in question is used in the form oral tablets, and also in the form of a local ointment.
"Valacyclovir." For the treatment of ocular herpes, this drug is used in tablet form.
Zovirax is an antiviral eye ointment that is very effective against herpes simplex viruses. After using it active substance The drug is immediately absorbed by the periocular tissues and corneal epithelium. As a result, such a concentration of the drug is formed in the intraocular fluid that is necessary for active suppression of the virus.
“Oftan-IDU”, “Idoxuridine” - these drugs are specifically designed for the treatment of ophthalmoherpes. They are produced in the form of drops that contain an analogue of thymine. The medication in question prevents the virus from multiplying and also suppresses its activity. For better efficiency drops must be instilled every hour. However, with prolonged use they can cause damage to the cornea.
"Trifluorothymidine" is a drop similar to "Oftan-IDU". However, it should be noted that they have a less toxic effect.
"Riodoxol", "Tebrofen", "Bonafton" - all of these drugs are in the form of an ointment. They can be applied to the skin of the eyelids, and also placed inside the eye.
"Vidarabine" is an effective gel against ophthalmoherpes. It is applied to the conjunctiva 5 times a day.

Eye drops "Ophthalmoferon": instructions

Which antiviral drug is most effective against ocular herpes? Experts say that these are Ophthalmoferon drops. Their price is about 300 rubles, so almost anyone can purchase such a product.

The medication in question contains diphenhydramine and interferon alpha-2a. It is produced in polymer dropper bottles, which are placed in cardboard packs.

Antiviral drops for lacrimation "Ophthalmoferon" have wide range actions. In addition to anti-inflammatory properties, this drug exhibits immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, local anesthetic and regenerating effects.

For what indications is the medication in question prescribed to patients? According to the instructions, it is used for:

adenoviral, ;
hemorrhagic, adenoviral and herpetic conjunctivitis;
hepertic stromal keratitis without ulceration and with ulceration of the cornea;
herpetic uveitis;
herpetic and adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis;
herpetic keratouveitis (without and with ulceration).

As for contraindications, this product has virtually none. These drops cannot be used only if you are individually intolerant to their components.

How should the drug "Ophthalmoferon" be used? The dosage of this topical medication should be determined by an ophthalmologist. In the acute stage, it is instilled into the affected eye, 1-2 drops up to 7-8 times a day. As soon as the inflammatory process begins to stop, the number of instillations is reduced to 2-3 times a day.

The course of treatment with this drug is determined by the doctor. As a rule, the use of the medicine is continued until the symptoms of the disease disappear completely.

Prevention of ocular herpes

The main set of preventive actions for ophthalmoherpes should be aimed at interrupting the transmission routes of the virus. Thus, a person needs to avoid close contact with the patient, not use the same dishes, towels and cosmetics with him, and also carefully observe the rules of personal hygiene in the presence of other forms of herpes.

As for pregnant women infected with genital herpes, they are prescribed special treatment, and then intensive treatment is carried out birth canal, in order to avoid infecting the baby in the process of passing through them.

If herpes occurs too often, then vaccination is carried out using a special anti-herpetic solution. It is also administered to the patient under close medical supervision.

To prevent the possible development of the virus, potential patients should definitely adjust their diet. In addition, during cold season they need to take multivitamins. The patient is also indicated for physical exercise and hardening procedures, which will improve immunity and therefore prevent the appearance of rashes.

The herpes virus can affect various organs and systems, including the organs of the visual apparatus. Ocular herpes (ophthalmoherpes) is dangerous disease, in which the cornea is affected. The process leads to vision impairment.

In people with weakened immune systems, the disease can recur up to five times in one year. In severe cases, the virus affects deeper tissues and provokes the development of diseases leading to blindness.

Herpetic infection causes inflammation of the cornea - keratitis, which is the main cause of deterioration in visual function. Before we talk about treatment, let's look at the common causes of eye herpes.

Provoking factors

Depending on the time of occurrence, herpes can be congenital or acquired. Herpes over the eye can be caused by the following pathogens:

herpes simplex;
chickenpox virus;
genital herpes;
cytomegalovirus.

U healthy person With a strong immune system, the eyes are well protected from pathogenic microflora. Tears contain immunoglobulins, which prevent the spread of viral infection.

Herpes on the eye is a highly contagious disease, meaning it is very easy to become infected with herpes viruses. Let us highlight the main routes of transmission of infection:

airborne;
contact;
sexual;
domestic;
transplacental;
ascending.

Primary infection usually occurs through contact with an infected person or through the use of shared objects.

Let's consider the provoking factors leading to the appearance of herpes near the eye:

stressful situations:
hypothermia;
weakened immune system;
infectious diseases;
eye injury;
pregnancy;
taking cytostatics or immunosuppressants;
prolonged stay in abnormally low conditions or, conversely, high temperatures Oh;
long-term antibacterial therapy;
monotonous food.

Symptoms

Let's highlight characteristic features herpes on the eyelid:

profuse lacrimation;
redness of the eyeball;
blurred vision;
narrowing of the palpebral fissure;
itching, tingling;
photophobia;
eyelid twitching;
weakness, headaches;
low-grade fever up to 37.5 degrees;
lump-like thickening of the skin;
soreness, sensation foreign body;
the appearance of bubbles with dirty yellow discharge. After they burst, crusts appear.

Crusts form in place of burst bubbles

In case of damage to the herpes virus, the retina of the eye appears more severe symptoms, namely:

closing the eyes in the form of convulsions;
diplopia – double vision;
distortion of objects;
the appearance of flashes before the eyes;
blurred vision.

Clinical forms of herpes

Let's look at the forms of herpes and their clinical characteristics.

Herpetic dermatitis of the eyelids

The disease occurs in the form of herpes simplex or herpes zoster. It has an acute onset. The main symptoms of the disease are as follows:

redness of the eyelid;
bubbles with clear liquid, in place of which crusts appear over time;
burning and itching;
chills;
headache;
elevated temperature.

Bubbles can be either single or multiple. Herpetic dermatitis of the eyelids has a tendency to recur.

In shingles, the trigeminal nerve is affected. This causes severe neurological pain along the trigeminal nerve, in the orbit, dizziness, headache, the appearance of a blind spot in the field of vision. Patients complain about severe pain when moving the eyeball. After the wounds heal, scars appear.

Ringworm on the eye causes redness of the eyelids

For simple lichen, wet areas are lubricated with a solution of brilliant green. The crusts are lubricated with antibiotic ointments. Multivitamin complexes are prescribed for oral use.

To combat shingles, the rash is lubricated with oxolinic ointment, Zovirax or Bonafton. To achieve an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, Analgin or Reopirin is prescribed. Before applying the ointment and instilling drops, hands are thoroughly washed with soap and disinfected with a special gel.

Herpetic conjunctivitis

Herpetic conjunctivitis is characterized by unilateral lesions. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye manifests itself as follows:

mucous discharge from the eyes;
sticking of eyelids;
sensation of a foreign body in the eye;
lacrimation;
dryness and burning;
photophobia;
swelling and redness of the eyelids and skin around the eye;
red eyeballs;
blisters on the cornea, skin and eyelids.

The photo clearly shows herpetic conjunctivitis with swelling

Treatment of eye herpes includes the use of antiviral, antibacterial and glucocorticosteroid drops. Lack of timely treatment threatens vision deterioration, infection and scarring.

Herpetic keratitis

With keratitis, a herpetic infection affects the cornea. The disease is prone to recurrence and threatens complete loss of vision. The initial period of herpetic lesions resembles a mild bacterial infection in its manifestations. It is characterized by the appearance of the following symptoms:

lacrimation;
redness;
increased sensitivity;
photophobia;
corneal edema;
small blisters turning into ulcers;
blurred vision.

The disease cannot be treated with antibiotics and is often progressive. In some cases, the disease goes away without treatment. After several recurrent cases, ulcers form, clouding of the cornea occurs, and its sensitivity is also impaired.

Antiviral ointments and drops are used to treat keratitis. In severe cases it is indicated hospital treatment under the supervision of an ophthalmologist. Patients are treated with antiherpetic and immunomodulatory drugs.

Reddened skin around the eyes is lubricated with antiviral ointments

Stromal keratitis

The disease is characterized by damage to the deeper layers of the cornea, which can lead to complete blindness. Manifestations of stromal keratitis can be quite different:

irritation and pain in the eye;
blurred vision;
swelling;
lacrimation;
redness;
sensation of the presence of a foreign body;
ulcers on the cornea;
photophobia;
mucous discharge.

If the surface layers of the cornea are affected, ointments, drops and tablets with an antiviral effect are prescribed. If ineffective conservative treatment Surgery may be required.

Upper eyelid with herpes, red and swollen

Herpes on the eyelid of a child

Most children are born with antibodies that protect them from herpes infection, but these disappear within six months. Parents should pay attention to the fact that after vaccination, the child’s immune system is reconstructed and may not have time to respond to an attack by harmful microorganisms, including herpes viruses.

The first symptoms of the disease that you should pay attention to are:

redness and irritability of the eyes;
blisters on the eyelids;
itching and burning;
lacrimation;
photophobia;
foreign body sensation;
acute pain in the eye;
inability to open the eye.

How to treat?

Herpes under the eye is treated depending on the form and severity of the disease. Therapeutic tactics include fighting the infectious agent and unpleasant clinical symptoms.

Drug treatment includes the use of such means:

Valaciclovir for oral administration;
Oftan-IDU antiviral drops are dripped one six times a day;
Miramistin antiseptic drops are instilled into the conjunctival sac, one six times a day;
Naklof anti-inflammatory drops are dripped three times a day;
at allergic reactions use antihistamine drops Opatanol.

Anti-herpetic vaccination will help prevent relapse

Antiviral ointments will help relieve the symptoms of herpes:

Acyclovir is applied to the affected areas four times a day;
Tebrofen ointment is applied to the edges of the eyelid three to four times a day for two weeks;
Vidarabine is applied every three hours.

As adjuvant therapy means used traditional medicine. The following recipes are used to wash the eyes:

take dry leaves and marshmallow leaves. Two tablespoons of raw materials are poured into a glass of boiling water. The product is infused for half an hour, filtered, and then used for the procedure;
pour a teaspoon of lungwort with 250 ml of boiling water. The product should be infused for two hours;
Several rose hips, two lungwort leaves, and a teaspoon of bird cherry leaves are infused in a glass of boiling water.

Important! It is forbidden to wash both eyes with the same cotton pad.

Compresses will help relieve inflammation and speed up the healing process:

You will need arnica flowers and leaves. A tablespoon of raw material is poured into a glass of boiling water and left for two hours;
combine freshly squeezed aloe juice with water at a ratio of 1:10;
a spoonful of dry celandine is poured with 250 ml of boiling water. After the solution has cooled, add a little honey to it;
Mix fresh dill with water.

Following the rules of personal hygiene will help reduce the likelihood of relapse. Avoid contact with carriers of infection

do not give personal hygiene items to anyone: towel, washcloth, soap;
Change your bed linen regularly. If you are already sick, wash your bedding using high temperatures;
avoid exposure to strong winds;
the room in your home should be sufficiently humidified;
Don’t strain your eyes, don’t forget about rest.

Summary

Herpes on the eye is a dangerous disease that should be treated by a qualified specialist. Maintaining personal hygiene will help speed up the healing process and reduce the likelihood of relapse. The basis of treatment is antiviral ointments and drops. To prevent joining bacterial infection also used antibacterial agents. Used as a supplement folk recipes. Do not forget that the first stage of treatment is diagnosis, so when the first symptoms of herpes appear, contact a specialist.

Almost 90% of the world's population are carriers of herpes infection, but not everyone exhibits symptoms of the disease. Herpes on the eye (ophthalmoherpes) is the result of activation in the body of a virus of type 1 or 2, as well as Zoster, each of which is highly contagious and therefore dangerous to human health.

Herpes on the eye (ophthalmoherpes) is the result of activation of type 1 or 2 virus in the body, as well as Zoster.

Symptoms

Since the causes of herpes are upper eyelid There may be several eyes, the symptoms are slightly different. If the cause of eye disease is the herpes simplex virus, then you should expect:

blisters, erosive manifestations, and later crusts appear at the site of the lesion;
pain, burning and tingling;
inflammation of the cornea acute form herpesvirus;
sensation of sand in the eyeball.

Herpes caused by the varicella zoster virus involves the trigeminal nerve. A feature of ophthalmoherpes is a clear delineation - the skin around and under the eye, on the eyelids, with severe forms on the mucous membrane. There is lacrimation, hyperemia, photophobia, and in the vesicles themselves there is white liquid, pus, blood, and gangrenous elements.

How to treat chicken pox in front of your eyes? More details in this.

Causes

The herpes virus can manifest itself with a decrease in immunity, therefore it is accompanied respiratory diseases, overheating or hypothermia, and is also transmitted through contact with carriers of the disease. Herpes zoster ophthalmicus is a virus identical to chickenpox.

In a healthy body, even if there is a danger of infection through airborne droplets, the cells are able to resist infection, and it will not manifest itself.

Treatment of herpes in the eyes

It is easier to treat herpes simplex than herpes zoster. Most often, after seeing a doctor and in case of relapses, people are treated at home with prescribed medications on their own.

Immunostimulating agents, as well as topical ointments sold in pharmacies over the counter (for example,) help to quickly cure herpes simplex in the eyes.

In case of the herpes zoster type of disease, immediate hospitalization in a hospital should be carried out under the supervision of a dermatologist and neurologist, and the patient should also be observed by an ophthalmologist. Treatment is complex:

antiviral measures (including those that increase the patient’s immunity);
analgesic drugs;
ointments and alcohol solutions, which are used both for the corners of the eyes and in areas of skin lesions on the bridge of the nose.

In addition to treatment, herpes pills and physical therapy are used. Each drug reduces the number of exacerbations, alleviates symptoms, and relieves eye fatigue. But an infected body will no longer be able to completely get rid of the virus.

If the deep structures of the eyes are affected, the area of damage can be reduced only with the help of surgical methods treatment (neurotomy, laser coagulation, etc.).

Diagnostics

The main thing in diagnosing herpesvirus infection in the eye is extended laboratory test. This makes it possible to eliminate the provoking factor and adjust the treatment regimen to the patient in order to prevent further relapse.

During the diagnostic process, when examined by an ophthalmologist, the type of ocular herpes is identified:

keratitis (middle layers of the cornea);
iridocyclitis (iris);
retinitis (retina of the eye)

Another analysis is a laboratory test for antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. IgG antibodies and IgM in the blood serum indicate a problem (read more).

How to treat

Antiviral therapy gives good results if treatment is started in a timely manner. Among the popular ones are not only tablet preparations, but also eye drops (antiseptic and antiviral), Levomekol cream, and for children – Viferon suppositories. Antiviral drugs improve the body's resistance to infection and are convenient to use. Apply the gel and ointment to the eye area after thoroughly washing your hands, since infection in the eye comes from other infected areas of the body. Also applicable:

steroids;
tablets that reduce intraocular pressure (to preserve the patient’s vision);
if the cornea or retina is affected, the use of antibiotics is necessary, since the infection penetrates into the optic nerve.

If there are signs of infection on the skin, Acyclovir and Fenistil-pencivir are effective. But even in this case, it is necessary to protect the mucous membrane and use drops.

Herpes zoster can affect the cornea, conjunctiva, retina and iris of the eyes, which will certainly affect the patient's vision. Therefore, if such a spread of infection is suspected, it is necessary to regularly visit an ophthalmologist and undergo all necessary tests. No vaccine will get rid of primary or recurrent zoster virus.

Folk remedies

In addition to general strengthening measures, getting rid of bad habits, and consuming enough vitamins, you can use medications made from natural ingredients. Among them are bactericidal Thai drops. At their core tropical plants and glycerin, and they can be used on the especially sensitive inner side of the eye.

Natural oils are often used (fir, camphor, tea tree), they effectively relieve the symptoms of the virus on the eye.

Lotions made from apples or grated potatoes help a lot. You should take 1 fruit, grind it on a grater, place the pulp in a bandage and apply it to the affected eye. Applications dry out wounds and promote healing.

How to relieve swelling

Acyclovir-based drugs have proven effective in combating swelling that occurs at the very beginning of infection. For example, Zovirax comes in the form of an ointment or gel and is applied every 3 hours to the affected area of the eye. After a day, the swelling goes away, other symptoms decrease after a week.

To prevent swelling, use a gel. It contains natural potato ingredients, so it can be applied up to 6 times a day. The drug does not cause allergies.

Children's cream Bepanten also has anti-edematous properties and is recommended even for babies.

How long does it last

It is impossible to completely cure eye herpes. Herpetic lesions of the body tend to recur when the immune system is weakened or provoking factors appear.

Depending on the stage and extent of the disease, the duration of treatment varies from a week to a month. It is necessary to undergo examination according to the recommendations of the attending physician throughout life.

Prevention

As preventive measures follows:

Keep your hands and body clean. Wash especially thoroughly after touching the affected area or communicating with a carrier of the virus.
Do not allow even relatives to use your personal hygiene items (razors, toothbrushes, etc.).

It is necessary to increase immunity, adhere to the principles proper nutrition, follow sanitary rules.

Complications

If you do not take any action to get rid of the symptoms of herpes, the consequences can be unpredictable: scarring of the skin, decreased visual acuity due to clouding of the cornea and vitreous and even complete blindness. Redness and swelling form around the eye, which causes severe pain when touched or exposed to direct sunlight.

Chronic herpes can lead to the development of cataracts or glaucoma. Ocular herpes can cause retinal necrosis leading to decreased vision if proper treatment is not prescribed and carried out.

Peculiarities

The course of the disease depends on the state of health of the person.

With age and under circumstances that weaken the body (overwork, stress, staying in a cold or stuffy room, respiratory diseases), herpes can take on different forms and degrees of complexity.

In adults

Primary ocular herpes in an adult is more common when there are manifestations of this virus in other parts of the body. In adults, decreased immunity and greater susceptibility to infection are observed after 50 years of age, as well as with frequent changes of sexual partners or during pregnancy.

In children

According to statistics, newborns and children from 5 months to 6 years are at risk. All a mother can do to protect her baby from the virus is to monitor cleanliness and hygiene. If possible, it is recommended to limit the child’s contact with unfamiliar or infected people.

Herpes on the eyes - photo

Herpes on the eye can be the result of infection through touching with unwashed hands: it is enough to touch the eye after touching another affected area, and the herpes virus will spread to the eye.

It is often possible that ocular herpes penetrates the mucous membranes after using common hygiene items: in this case, towels. The affected person could use it, after which it would be easy for a healthy person to catch the virus.

A characteristic feature of such a disease as eye herpes is the dislocation of the virus in the nerve ganglia. At the same time, their state may be passive, but as soon as favorable conditions for development and reactivation arise, the “sore” will again affect the eye area. Often the cause of repeated damage is a weakened immune system.

Damage to the eye mucosa most often occurs with the following types of herpesvirus:

HSV types I and II;
HHV type III, which often causes shingles;
HHV type V or cytomegalovirus.

Symptoms of eye herpes in general are:

Redness of the eyelid and mucous membrane, possible formation of hemorrhages;
Formation of subcutaneous seals with edema;
It is possible to detect characteristic vesicular formations filled with cloudy liquid (most often this is herpes on the eyelid);
On the cornea with herpes, erosions and darkened or clouded areas can be observed;
Herpetic conjunctivitis may develop;
Herpetic eye lesions can also cause sharp pains, itching, also cause herpes keratitis, blurred vision, conjunctivitis, etc.

Important! In any of the considered options for the development of infection, it is advisable to visit your doctor at the first suspicion of herpes in order to make an accurate diagnosis and take urgent measures.

If herpes appears under the eye or herpes on the eyelid, then the symptoms manifest themselves differently:

Bubble formations become obvious and obvious;
Itching and pain may be more severe;
The likelihood of feeling unwell and having a fever is the same.

It is worth understanding that with incorrectly selected treatment or in the absence of it as such, the likelihood of the virus affecting the eye cavity increases significantly. Then the infection, which has settled not only around the eyes, but also inside, can provoke eye keratitis or herpetic conjunctivitis.

If we consider the main complaints that patients present when contacting specialists and after making the diagnosis we are considering, we should highlight the following:

Acute pain not only in the eye area, but also in the surrounding nerve endings. The nature of the pain ranges from cutting to aching, shooting pain;
Often, “blurred” vision was recorded;
Acute reaction to changes in lighting;
Complaints about uncomfortable rotation were also recorded quite often. eyeball, feeling as if “sand was in the eyes.”

Important! If similar signs and sensations are detected, it is recommended to undergo an examination. This measure will help prevent the activation of viral cells and suppress herpes in early stage development, which will make it possible to avoid complications and adverse consequences.

It is advisable to touch upon an important topic for us: how to treat eye herpes.

Treatment of herpes in the eye

Referred to by specialists as ophthalmoherpes, herpes on the upper eyelid or lower eyelid, in the mucous membranes of the eyes and on the skin next to the eyes, it is important to promptly and.

Important! The earlier antiherpetic therapy is started, the greater the likelihood of successful treatment of ophthalmoherpes and the higher the chances of avoiding complications.

After contacting, most likely, a therapist, the patient will be redirected to an ophthalmologist. After an ophthalmological examination and determining the extent of the lesion, as well as the stage of development of the herpetic infection, a complex treatment various groups drugs:

When it comes to young patients, antiviral drops for children can be used;
Drops can also be prescribed to adults;
Ointments, creams and gels are also used;
Tablet forms of drugs may be prescribed;
In extremely severe cases, intravenous injections will be required to deal a crushing blow to the intractable form of the viral infection.

Important! Self-treatment herpes in the eye area is unacceptable. The first and most true of all possible activities which you can do yourself without harm to your health - ask for qualified assistance to the nearest hospital to the local pediatrician.

Let's take a closer look at how to treat this disease.

Topical antiviral agents - ointments and drops for herpes

Most a common and effective remedy for the treatment of ophthalmoherpes is "". This ointment for herpes is applied by placing a small amount behind and on the affected eyelid. The advantage is that it can be used by both adults and children;
Can also be used tetracycline ointment. In the treatment of ophthalmoherpes, it has no equal, because its penetrating ability is much higher than that even in comparison with Acyclovir. The effect of tetracycline can be considered one of the most effective when it comes to herpes in the eye area;
“Ophthalmoferon” can be prescribed in the form of drops for the treatment of ophthalmoherpes. Often the drug is prescribed if a disease is diagnosed in a child.

Antiviral drugs in the form of tablets - we treat ophthalmoherpes from the inside

The consequences of herpes in the eye area are unfavorable: from skin injury to partial loss of vision, so an integrated approach to combating the herpes virus is the best solution.

So, in combination with the funds local application can be used:

"Acyclovir". Efficiency and recognition by most experts speak for themselves;
"Famvir". Another effective remedy for eye treatment;
“Valvir”, “Valavir”, etc.

There is no point in considering intravenous injection agents, because most of them are created on the basis active substance, which is the “base” of the overwhelming majority of modern antiviral drugs. All you need to know about them is that they need to be used in extremely severe cases.

Possible complications

Can herpes cause complications? Yes, if the considered symptoms and treatment of the disease do not prompt the reader to take immediate action.

Among the likely consequences are:

Dry cornea;
Her damage;
Deterioration of vision up to blindness;
Postherpetic neuralgia.

Get treatment correctly and don’t be afraid to contact. Be healthy!