Antivirals Reduce Herpes Related Eye Problems


Antiviral therapy could help to reduce eye problems caused by the herpes or cold-sore virus, according to new research published in the journal Archives of Ophthalmology. Researchers explain that exposure to the herpes virus impairs eyesight by infecting sensory nerve structures in the eye which often causes the cornea to become badly inflamed. Scientists believe that the herpes virus is among the leading causes of corneal blindness in the developed world.

Researchers found that patients taking the antiviral herpes treatment prophylaxis orally, for over two years were ten times less likely to suffer recurring eye problems associated with exposure to the herpes virus and were at a much lower risk of developing conjunctivitis or eyelid infections than their counterparts who were not prescribed the antiviral medication.

Researchers have now recommended that antiviral prophylaxis be prescribed, long term, to patients suffering from recurring corneal problems that not only impair vision but also act to lower quality of life.

14th September 2010

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