Eyelid Herpes: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care Tips

Q: Eyelid Herpes: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care Tips

Hello R： 1. It could be caused by a medical condition. 2. Without examination, it is impossible to make a judgment. 3. No need to bandage. 4. It will take about one to two weeks. 5. It depends on the location of the lesion; if it's inside the e

Ocular herpes

Hello, doctor.
Initially, on September 28, my eye was struck by something, so I went to see an ophthalmologist.
The doctor said my cornea was normal but had mild inflammation, and prescribed Solomon eye drops and Keterolac for treatment.
A few days later, on October 1, I suddenly experienced itching under my eye, and the doctor diagnosed it as an allergy, prescribing Betamethasone eye ointment.
Then, on October 8, my eye felt very itchy again, and the doctor said it had developed into allergic conjunctivitis, continuing treatment with Betamethasone ointment and switching the eye drops to Loteprednol.
Two days later, on October 10, the itching improved, but my upper eyelid was swollen and painless.
I returned to the doctor, who said it was herpes and prescribed Zirgan eye drops and an antifungal treatment.
However, the next day, on October 11, I woke up with even more swelling, including my lower eyelid.
I went to another clinic, where the doctor also believed it was herpes and prescribed Moxifloxacin eye drops and Dexamethasone ointment, advising that the ointment should only be applied to the eyelid and not inside the eye.
However, when I applied the Dexamethasone ointment to my upper eyelid, I experienced stinging and itching.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Is this reaction a sign of intolerance to the Dexamethasone ointment? 2.
Should I switch back to the antifungal treatment and Zirgan eye drops? Additionally, since the doctor later diagnosed me with conjunctivitis, he advised that I should avoid touching my eyes to prevent worsening the condition, so I have been wrapping my eyes with gauze at night and during the day, except when applying the medication.
However, the doctor at the second clinic said not to use gauze as it would slow down healing.
I would like to ask the doctor: 3.
Should I use gauze or not? 4.
What is the typical healing time for eyelid herpes? 5.
For eyelid herpes, should the ointment only be applied to the skin externally? The doctor at the first clinic did not specify, so I was still applying it inside my eye, but the second doctor told me it was unnecessary to apply it inside, just on the swollen upper and lower eyelids.
Thank you for addressing these five questions, doctor.

R, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/11

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello R: 1.
It could be caused by a medical condition.
2.
Without examination, it is impossible to make a judgment.
3.
No need to bandage.
4.
It will take about one to two weeks.
5.
It depends on the location of the lesion; if it's inside the eye, apply drops inside, and if it's on the eyelid, apply outside.
If there is still no improvement, it may be necessary to see an ophthalmologist to determine if a change in medication is needed.

Reply Date: 2022/10/11

More Info

Understanding eyelid herpes, also known as herpes simplex keratitis or herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection of the eyelid, is crucial for effective treatment and management. Your recent experiences with eye irritation, swelling, and the progression of symptoms suggest a complex interaction between allergic reactions and viral infections. Here’s a comprehensive overview addressing your concerns and providing insights into symptoms, treatment options, and care tips.

1. Reaction to Medication
The symptoms you describe, such as increased itching and swelling after applying the Redilite ointment, could indicate a sensitivity or allergic reaction to the medication. Topical medications can sometimes cause localized irritation, especially if they contain preservatives or other irritating agents. If you suspect that the Redilite ointment is causing discomfort, it may be wise to discontinue its use and consult your healthcare provider about alternative treatments.

2. Treatment Options
Given your history of allergic conjunctivitis and the recent diagnosis of herpes, it’s essential to follow a treatment plan that addresses both conditions. If the initial antiviral medications (like the ones you received) were effective in managing the herpes symptoms, it might be beneficial to return to those treatments. Antiviral medications are crucial in controlling herpes outbreaks and preventing further complications. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication regimen.

3. Use of Bandages
The advice regarding the use of a bandage or gauze over the affected area can vary based on the specific condition and its severity. In general, covering the eye with a bandage can help protect it from further irritation and prevent scratching, especially during sleep. However, if a healthcare provider suggests that keeping the area uncovered may promote healing and reduce moisture retention (which can worsen infections), it’s essential to follow that guidance. Each case is unique, so it’s best to adhere to the recommendations of your treating physician.

4. Healing Time for Eyelid Herpes
The healing time for eyelid herpes can vary significantly depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s immune response. Typically, with appropriate antiviral treatment, symptoms may begin to improve within a few days, but complete healing can take one to two weeks. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out complications.

5. Application of Ointments
For eyelid herpes, topical antiviral ointments are generally applied to the skin around the eye rather than directly into the eye itself. Applying medication directly to the eye can lead to irritation and may not be effective in treating the viral infection. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the application of any medication, and clarify any uncertainties about the proper method of use.

Additional Care Tips
- Hygiene: Maintain strict hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes.

- Avoid Triggers: Stress, fatigue, and sun exposure can trigger herpes outbreaks. Manage stress and protect your eyes from excessive sunlight.

- Follow-Up: Regular follow-ups with your eye care specialist are crucial to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

- Avoid Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, avoid using them until the infection has completely resolved to prevent further irritation or complications.

In summary, managing eyelid herpes requires a careful approach that includes appropriate medication, attention to hygiene, and regular communication with your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns about your treatment or symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for personalized advice and care.

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