I have had chicken pox, shingles and herpetic keratitis in both eyes. Once the herpes virus is in your system it is next to impossible for it to completely disappear. The trick is to keep it dormant. I once went 20 years before having another outbreak.
Basically I agree with all the posts that have been stated on this forum. However, I do have some additional advice. Stress and a weakened immune system can bring out the virus but so can excessive amounts of sun. I know that for a fact as I had a massive outbreak in both eyes in 1997 because I spent too much time on the beach. Another good piece of wisdom I can impart is that at the first onset of a flareup. go see a doctor and go on a combination of Valtrex and either Viroptic drops or Zirgan ointment.
Because I waited too long, I have permanent scarring on my right cornea.
Here is what I do know to try and minimize the chances of an outbreak: (1) Take 1000 mg of L-Lysine every morning on an empty stomach as it seems to be more effective that way. (2) Take 1000 mg of Valtrex every night before going to bed since your immune system is most compromised when you sleep. The regular Valtrex works better for me than the generic version. The down side is it's very expensive. Fortunately, my former employer has provided us with a very good prescription program. I realize my case is extreme and the Valtrex on a regular basis may not be needed for most people.
Hope this helps!
Gary
Gary
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