Vision Problems
The rash from the shingles develops on an area of the skin where there are sensory neurons. It could appear on a person’s face, typically around the eyes. When the virus reactivation occurs on the ophthalmic division, doctors call it zoster opthalmicus, which may involve the upper eyelid and orbit of the eye or the forehead. In some people, the symptoms of shingles may include optic nerve palsies, uveitis (inflammation inside the eye), keratitis (corneal inflammation), and conjunctivitis (pink eye). These symptoms can occasionally cause debilitating pain, loss of vision, and chronic ocular inflammation.
People developing shingles in the eye will first experience pain and tingling on the side of their nose or forehead. Next, they will notice redness, swelling, and pain in their eyelids. They could also have blurry vision and sensitivity to light. Later, they will have a rash and a band of blisters on their upper eyelid, nose, and forehead.
A person who develops shingles in the eye should see their doctor immediately. The person needs to take oral medications to treat the virus. Likewise, the doctor will prescribe ointments or eye drops for the eyes.
