
	Herpes Photo Gallery

Herpes Photo Gallery

Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is caused by the same virus responsible for chicken pox. After the initial exposure, herpes zoster lies dormant in certain nerve fibers. It may become active as a result of many factors such as: aging, stress, suppression of the immune system, and certain medications.

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IMPORTANT NOTE

This site is for educational purposes only; information contained within should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult a licensed health care provider regarding your medical condition.

HERPES ZOSTER OVERVIEW

Because of the layout of the nerves that herpes zoster resides in, it only affects one side of the body or face during an outbreak. It begins as a rash that lead to blisters and sores on the skin. When the nerve branch that supplies the eye is involved, the forehead, nose, and eyelids may also be affected. Sores on the nose are a key signal of possible eye involvement.

Herpes zoster can cause several problems with the eye and surrounding skin that may have long term effects. Inflammation and scarring of the cornea, along with conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva) and iritis (inflammation of the iris) are typical problems that require treatment. In some cases, the retina and optic nerve are involved. Eye problems caused by severe or chronic outbreaks of herpes zoster may include: glaucoma, cataract, double vision, and scarring of the cornea and eyelids.

Many who experience this infection find it extremely painful. This acutely painful phase usually lasts several weeks; however, some continue to experience pain or neuralgia long after the outbreak has cleared. This is known as post-herpetic neuralgia.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Herpes zoster causes a wide range of problems affecting the skin and the eye. They range in severity depending on the extent of the outbreak. Some problems listed occur indirectly from the inflammation caused by the disease.

Problems affecting the body

Flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, fatigue)
Rash
Red, sensitive, sore skin
Blisters and sores on the skin
Pain (may be burning or throbbing), itching and tingling

Problems affecting the eye

Redness
Light sensitivity
Swollen eyelids
Dry eyes
Blurred vision (depending on how the eye is affected)
Corneal inflammation that may lead to scarring
Inflammation inside the eye and optic nerve
Glaucoma
Cataract
Double vision
Loss of sensation

DETECTION AND DIAGNOSIS

When the eye is affected, the doctor will perform a thorough examination with a slit lamp microscope and an ophthalmoscope. Visual acuity and intraocular pressure are also monitored. Signs of breakout on the face and body are noted.

TREATMENT

Herpes zoster is treated with anti-viral, pain and anti-inflammatory medications. Eye drops and ointments may be prescribed to treat ocular problems. In some cases, secondary conditions caused by herpes zoster may require surgery.

Those who are infected should avoid contact with people who may be more susceptible to contracting the disease such as: the elderly, children, pregnant women, or anyone with a compromised immune system.

Herpes Virus Information & Herpes Drugs