Shingles

Although most people who have an outbreak of shingles end up with a rash along their neck or chest, a few unlucky individuals must endure the pain and symptoms around an eye. When this occurs, the diagnosis is herpes zoster ophthalmicus.

Shingles, or herpes zoster varicella, is the same virus which causes chicken pox in young children. Once a person has had the chicken pox, or the chicken pox vaccine, the virus goes dormant and resides within nerve cells. It is unknown why, but in some people, the virus is re-born and it strikes within the nerves in which it was residing.

In the case of zoster ophthalmicus, the varicella virus had once been dormant in the ocular nerve of one eye. When the virus re-appears, it might not be evident immediately, as to what is causing the symptoms. In the beginning, a person with zoster ophthalmicus may only experience a tingling sensation. However, within a few hours to a few days, a blistery rash will begin to appear. The blisters will then burst and crust over. The rash may not be present directly on the eye, although this is typical. Sometimes, the rash spreads to the forehead and nose. It is also common to experience redness and swelling of the eyelid when zoster ophthalmicus is present.

In many cases, shingles is a painful condition, and when it is present in the eye, this pain can be magnified. There are also several serious complications that can arise from zoster ophthalmicus. The cornea can swell and be damaged or scarred. The area behind the cornea can become infected and swell or glaucoma, increased pressure in the eye, can also become an issue.

Although there are no cures for zoster ophthalmicus, early diagnosis and treatment is essential to preserving the health of the eye as well as manage pain. In treating zoster ophthalmicus, many patients are prescribed acyclovir, valacyclovir or famciclovir as a preventative measure. Daily treatments with eye drops may also be needed to relieve pain as well as guard against severe glaucoma.

Although it is 75% more likely that a person with shingles will not experience zoster ophthalmicus, it is very important for all patients with shingles to see their doctor. If the virus is present in the eye, it is the most beneficial to receive medication within the first 72 hours in order to prevent serious complications even after the virus has gone dormant again.

Shingles |