02/02/2026
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) keratitis is a serious eye infection caused by the same virus that produces cold sores. It commonly affects the cornea, the clear front layer of the eye, and can present with redness, pain, watering, photophobia, and blurred vision. One of its classical signs is a dendritic (branch-like) corneal ulcer, as seen in the image below.
AS IN THIS PARTICULAR CASE, a major concern we see in clinical practice is self-medication with over-the-counter steroid-containing eye drops, JUST BECAUSE THEY WANT TO SAVE MODEST CONSULTATION CHARGES!! While steroids may temporarily reduce redness and discomfort, their use in HSV keratitis is extremely dangerous. Steroids suppress local immunity, allowing the virus to multiply rapidly and worsen corneal damage. What may begin as a small epithelial lesion can quickly progress to a deep ulcer, corneal thinning, scarring, or even perforation!
In many cases, inappropriate steroid use converts a treatable condition into one that causes permanent loss of vision. Patients often use these drops on advice from friends, chemists, or old prescriptions, unaware of the risks. HSV keratitis requires specific antiviral treatment, and steroids—if needed at all—must be used only under strict ophthalmic supervision!
The eye is a delicate organ, and not all red eyes are the same. What helps in one condition can be disastrous in another. I strongly urge patients to avoid self-medication and consult an ophthalmologist for any persistent eye redness, pain, or visual disturbance. Early diagnosis and correct treatment can save vision—a delay or wrong drop can cost it!
