Herpes Keratitis Treatment in India

Causes of Herpes Keratitis

Herpes Keratitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus, particularly HSV-1, which is commonly associated with cold sores. The virus can enter the eye through direct contact or reactivate from a dormant state in the body. Factors that may trigger an outbreak include:

• Stress
• Exposure to UV light (sunlight)
• Weakened immune system
• Eye injury or trauma
• Use of corticosteroid eye drops without medical supervision

Types of Herpes Keratitis

Herpes Keratitis can manifest in different forms, depending on the layers of the cornea it affects. Understanding the type of infection is crucial for proper treatment.

1. Epithelial Keratitis: Affects the outermost layer of the cornea (the epithelium). It’s the most common and less severe type.
2. Stromal Keratitis: A deeper, more severe infection affecting the stromal layer, which may cause scarring and vision loss if untreated.
3. Endothelial Keratitis: The rarest form, affecting the inner layer of the cornea (endothelium). It can lead to corneal swelling and more serious complications.

Symptoms of Herpes Keratitis

Recognizing the symptoms early can help in seeking prompt treatment. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Eye redness
• Eye pain or discomfort
• Blurred vision
• Excessive tearing
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Foreign body sensation in the eye
• Corneal ulcers in severe cases

Diagnosis of Herpes Keratitis

Diagnosing Herpes Keratitis involves a thorough eye examination by an experienced ophthalmologist. Dr. Suraj Munjal may use the following diagnostic techniques:

• Slit-lamp examination: To closely examine the cornea and detect abnormalities.
• Fluorescein staining: A special dye is used to highlight any corneal damage.
• Viral cultures or PCR testing: To confirm the presence of the herpes virus in severe or unclear cases.

Early diagnosis is critical to prevent vision complications, so it’s essential to visit an eye care professional as soon as symptoms appear.

Treatment for Herpes Keratitis

Treatment for Herpes Keratitis depends on the severity and type of the infection. Dr. Suraj Munjal offers a range of treatment options:

1. Antiviral Eye Drops or Medications: The primary treatment is antiviral therapy to reduce the viral load and prevent further damage. Common medications include acyclovir or ganciclovir.
2. Steroid Eye Drops: In cases of stromal or endothelial keratitis, steroid drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
3. Corneal Surgery: In severe cases with significant scarring, a corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision.

It’s crucial to follow the prescribed treatment plan and avoid self-medicating, as improper use of corticosteroids can worsen the infection.

Cost of Treatment and Stay in India

India is a hub for affordable, world-class medical treatments. Under the care of Dr. Suraj Munjal, patients can expect high-quality care at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries. The cost of treating Herpes Keratitis varies based on the severity of the condition, but here is a general estimate:

• Consultation fee: $30 – $50
• Antiviral medication: $10 – $100 (depending on the course)
• Surgical procedures: $2,000 – $3,500 (for corneal transplants, if needed)