Herpes zoster also known as shingles, is the reactivation of varicella zoster virus, or VZV. It is a same virus that causes chickenpox. Herpes zoster manifests as a vesicular rash, usually in a single dermatome. Development of the rash may be preceded by paresthesias or pain along the involved dermatome. Ocular involvement and zoster keratitis may result if reactivation occurs along the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve.Approximately 95% of adults in the United States have antibodies to the varicella-zoster virus. Herpes zoster can cause several problems with the eye and surrounding skin that may have long term effects. Inflammation and scarring of the cornea, along with conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva) and iritis (inflammation of the iris) are typical problems.

Incidence of herpes zoster increases with age. Approximately 80% of cases occur in persons older than 20 years. Shingles may be complicated by a condition known as post-herpetic neuralgia. This is persistence of pain in the area where the shingles occurred that may last from months to years following the initial episode. Herpes zoster may be associated with a secondary bacterial infection (typically streptococcal or staphylococcal) of the vesicular rash. Herpes zoster involving the second branch of the trigeminal nerve may be associated with conjunctivitis, keratitis, corneal ulceration, iridocyclitis, glaucoma, and blindness. Herpes zoster causes a wide range of problems affecting the skin and the eye. They range in severity depending on the extent of the outbreak.

Some problems listed occur indirectly from the inflammation caused by the disease. Herpes zoster is treated with anti-viral, pain and anti-inflammatory medications. Eye drops and ointments may be prescribed to treat ocular problems. Cimetidine, a common component of over-the-counter heartburn medication. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may occasionally be used to reduce inflammation and risk of post-herpetic neuralgia. They have been shown to be most effective in the elderly population. Cool wet compresses can be used to reduce pain. Soothing baths and lotions, such as colloidal oatmeal bath, starch baths, or lotions and calamine lotion, may help to relieve itching and discomfort. Avoid contact with the skin lesions of persons with known herpes zoster infection.

Herpes Zoster Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. Vaccine may prevent shingles or lessen its effects.

2. Cool wet compresses can be used to reduce pain.

3. Pain medicines(antihistamines ) mild to strong, may be needed to control pain.

4. Herpes zoster is treated with anti-viral, pain and anti-inflammatory medications.

5. Avoid contact with the skin lesions of persons with known herpes zoster infection.

6. Cimetidine medication, has been shown to lessen the severity of herpes zoster outbreaks in several different instances.