Shingles and Eye Sensitivity: Understanding Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus

Shingles is caused by a recurrence of the varicella zoster virus (VZV), one of the human herpes viruses. When it reactivates in a nerve in the face, it may cause eye sensitivity and other related symptoms.

Types

• Two types of shingles may lead to eye sensitivity: the herpes zoster ophthalmicus (shingles of the eye) and Ramsay Hunt syndrome, or shingles affecting the ear and face.

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus

• Herpes zoster ophthalmicus may make the eye overly sensitive to light (a symptom called photophobia), according to Merck Manuals.

Other Symptoms

• According to Merck Manuals, other symptoms of herpes zoster ophthalmicus include forehead tingling and rash, pain, swelling of the eyelid and cornea, and excess blood in many layers of the eye.

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

• Ramsay Hunt syndrome may make it difficult to close the eye on the affected side of the face. According to the Mayo Clinic, other symptoms include painful rash around the ear or mouth, weakness of facial muscles, ear pain and ringing, hearing loss, a feeling of spinning and changes in taste.

Treatments

• The treatments for herpes zoster ophthalmicus and Ramsay Hunt syndrome include oral antiviral medications and corticosteroids, according to Merck Manuals and the Mayo Clinic. Other treatments for Ramsay Hunt syndrome include diazepam for vertigo and painkillers, according to the Mayo Clinic.