The feeling of seeing your idols for the first time is unique. After all, fans have been eagerly waiting for years to experience this moment, facing long lines and making a huge financial effort to be there, near their favorite artist. However, when anxiety increases, some diseases can manifest themselves and often cause irreversible effects.
This was the case of Brenda Freitas, a fan of the RBD group, according to the article shown in Fantástico (Rede Globo) last Sunday (12). you have had a rare case of eye herpes, an infection known as ocular herpes. In this article, we will explain how this disease works, what its possible complications are and how it can be prevented.
What is eye herpes?
Ocular herpes is the name given to the infection Caused by the herpes virus, which affects the eyes and can permanently compromise the health of the retina. It can be caused by two different types of herpes: type 1 (HSV), which is the same virus that causes cold sores, and herpes zoster, which is known to cause shingles and chickenpox.
Type 2 herpes, which causes genital infection, does not pose any risk of eye complications. This type of infection is very rare because it involves a very common virus.
It is estimated that 80% of the population over the age of 50 has come into contact with some type of herpes-related virus, especially type 1, which is transmitted through touch or contact with objects.
However, it is common for this infection to not manifest itself in most of those infected. In cases of great stress, emotions, low immunity and fatigue, herpes can reappear in the body.
What are the possible complications of ocular herpes?
As in Brenda’s case, Eye infection with herpes virus can lead to blindness. This is because the retina can become compromised to the level of necrosis, causing the eyes to no longer function properly.
In milder cases, gradual vision loss may occur in only one eye. However, treatment should be started as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
What are the symptoms of eye herpes?
Symptoms may begin gradually, which alerts you to the need to start treatment early. Headaches (as in Brenda’s case) and tingling in the forehead (shingles) often occur initially.
Type 1 herpes infection looks like conjunctivitis, producing secretions on the eyelid and conjunctiva. Over time, these secretions may crust over and make it difficult for the patient to see.
Biggest complications occurs when infection reaches the cornea and retina. This is where visual impairment can progress and lead to blindness. For type 1 herpes, among other symptoms, we can highlight the following:
- light sensitivity
- swelling in the eyes
- Redness
- Burning
- Foreign body sensation in the eyes
- blurred vision
In cases of herpes zoster, symptoms may cover the patient’s entire face. In addition to the secretion and inflammation in the eyes, red blisters resembling shingles extending from the nose to the forehead may also occur.
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Treatment and prevention of the disease
Treatment depends on the location of the infection and the degree of involvement in the area. Antiviral medications generally give good results, whether taken orally or using eye drops and ointments with such effects. Despite everything In more serious cases, surgery may be required.
And just like other infections caused by viruses, Ocular herpes is very difficult to predict. But there are some daily practices that can make you less susceptible to it. Therefore, to avoid such situations, follow these tips:
- Avoid putting foreign objects in your eyes
- Try to avoid high-stress situations
- Maintain a healthy routine with good nutrition and physical activity;
- Sleep well, at least 7 to 8 hours a day
- Thoroughly clean your glasses, contact lenses, and other personal items;
- Always wash your hands well
It is important to keep in mind that although most adults have already been in contact with the virus, the virus often remains dormant in the body for long periods of time and reappears in situations of great emotional stress or fatigue.
Follow the latest developments in health and science at TecMundo. If you wish, take the opportunity to learn how blue light emitted from electronic media can harm your eyes and skin.
Source: Tec Mundo
I’m Blaine Morgan, an experienced journalist and writer with over 8 years of experience in the tech industry. My expertise lies in writing about technology news and trends, covering everything from cutting-edge gadgets to emerging software developments. I’ve written for several leading publications including Gadget Onus where I am an author.
