Shingles and the Eyes & Ears: Understanding Ophthalmic and Otic Herpes Zoster

The varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles, can affect the eyes and ears.

Ophthalmic zoster ("shingles of the eye") is an infection of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the forehead, eye, and nose. Herpes zoster ophthalmicus can cause a rash, corneal ulcers, and iritis. If the cornea becomes ulcerated, it may cause blindness.

Ramsay Hunt syndrome, also known as herpes zoster oticus, is a complication of the varicella-zoster virus that can affect the facial nerve and the inner ear. It can cause facial paralysis, hearing loss, tinnitus (an abnormal sound in the ear) and vertigo (a sensation of spinning).

While shingles can settle in the eyes and ears, it is rare for it to cause permanent damage.