The Herpes Zoster virus is also known as shingles. The condition, which usually presents as a skin rash, is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, a common and highly contagious childhood disease. The name of that virus is Varicella zoster virus (VZV). After the initial outbreak of chickenpox, the herpes zoster virus lies dormant in certain nerve fibers. The condition can reactivate due to a variety of factors including aging, stress as well as certain medications, illnesses and so forth.

Generally occurring in people over the age of 60, an estimated 500,000 cases of shingled are reported in the US annually. It’s important to note that the herps virus responsible for shingles and, of course, chickenpox, is not the same one that causes genital and oral herpes.

An outbreak of shingles can be very painful – and itchy. Because the virus resides in the nerves, it usually affects one side of the body or face during an outbreak. Beginning as a rash, herpes zoste can lead to blisters and sores on the surface of the epidermis (skin). If the nose has any outbreaks, it is safe to assume that the eye is also affected.

Eye problems can occur. These can range from the mild to severe and may include:

• Inflammation and scarring of the cornea,
• Conjunctivitis,
• Iritis,
• Glaucoma,
• Cataract,
• Double vision,
• And scarring of cornea and/or eyelids.

The active phase of the infection usually lasts for several weeks although pain and neuralgia (which is pain that is centered on a specific nerve pathway) can linger for much longer. Widespread or recurrent herpes zoster outbreaks might be indicative of a larger problem with the immune system including HIV infection, some types of cancers and other serious illnesses. If you suspect or know you have an outbreak of shingles, contact your doctor for immediate treatment.