Question:
Hi there,
I've had a problem with recurring episodes of dry, sore bloodshot eyes and after months of not worrying too much, thinking that I had an allergy, it flared up badly a few days ago so I went to a doctor and made him have a good look at my eye using the flourescent stain and eye torch. He found two small ulcers and prescribed some anti-bacterial ointment. This had no effect so last night I was given something else to try, Zovirax.

So it seems I might have ocular herpes, but I don't have a confirmed diagnosis, we are just seeing how I respond to the anti-viral ointment.
Does anyone here have ocular herpes which they treat with zovirax (aciclovir) eye ointment? I have been putting it in every 4 hours for the last 24 hours and so far it only stings and makes the redness much worse. Right now it looks really terrible, worse than I have ever seen it, but fortunately it's not very painful, just dry and a bit irritated (Especially when made to look at the computer all day because of work).

How long can I expect to see some results, if I really do have ocular herpes?
I know I'm being impatient but it's very frustrating! Would just like to hear some other experiences. Thanks for your time! :)

Answer:
An eye specialist should be able to give you a definite diagnosis if they know what they are doing. I have used drops - viroptic for my ulcers more many years, but can no longer use them due to a recenct allergic reaction. I currently only use valtrex with limited success. Also, it is rare for both eyes to be affected. The first OB is normally very painful and others less uncomfortable. The shortest amount of time for mine to clear has been about 4 wks. and the longest up to 6 months. Be patient, but I wonder if that is really what you have.