Final answer:
Herpes Simplex keratitis is characterized by eye pain, irritation, and sensitivity to light. It is treated with antiviral eye drops or medications, once laboratory tests confirm HSV-1 infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristics of Herpes Simplex Keratitis
Herpes Simplex keratitis is characterized by several symptoms, including eye pain, irritation, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, and potentially deep lesions on the cornea which could lead to blindness. This condition is often caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) when it spreads to the eye.
Treatment for Herpes Simplex Keratitis
To treat herpes simplex keratitis, antiviral eye drops or other antiviral medications may be prescribed once laboratory testing confirms the HSV-1 infection. This medical approach specifically targets the viral cause of the keratitis, unlike antibiotics which would not be effective against viral infections.
Therefore, the answer to the question would be (a) Eye pain and antiviral eye drops, as these address the symptoms and the appropriate treatment for Herpes Simplex keratitis.