|
What is Herpes Zoster?
Herpes zoster, commonly know as ăshinglesä is a viral disease that
causes a characteristic skin rash of small fluid-filled blisters
(vesicles) which form scabs and can leave permanent scars.
The
first symptom is often severe pain or itching followed by redness of
the skin, and finally, the appearance of a few or many of the
characteristic blister. The blisters follow the route of the infected
nerve.
Pain
is often severe, accompanied by burning, throbbing and extreme skin
sensitivity. The rash lasts three to six weeks but some people
experience pain months or years later. This extended pain is called
ăpost-herpetic neuralgia.ä
What Causes herpes Zoster?
Varicella zoster, the same virus that causes chicken pox is
responsible for herpes zoster. After years of dormancy, the virus
reactivates, usually attacking older people or those with reduced
immunity.
How Does Herpes Zoster Affect the Eye?
Herpes zoster commonly attacks the nerves around the eye, especially
the nerve that supplies the upper eyelid and forehead. If the virus
affects the nerves that go directly to the eyeball, it can cause
serious eye problems, including corneal ulcers, inflammation and
glaucoma. These problems may appear at the same time as the skin rash
or weeks after the vesicles have disappeared. Lingering pain is the
result of injured sensory nerves, which may remain overly sensitive
for years after the attack.
What is the Treatment for Herpes Zoster?
The
usual procedure is to control pain and prevent further skin infection
with soaks, scrubs and other treatments. Antiviral drugs, steroids,
and other medications taken by mouth may be helpful in some
circumstances. If the eyeball is affected, eye drops, eye ointments
or oral medications may be necessary.
Most
people recover without complications. Unfortunately, despite all
available medicines, some people have permanent visual damage and
continue to have pain even after the skin rash has gone away.
 |
