Shingles is a recurrence of the chicken pox virus in people who have already had the disease. This virus usually remains inactive within the nerves of the body after a case of chicken box. It can later travel down these nerves, infecting specific parts of the body, like the eye. Herpes zoster can cause blisters or lesions on the cornea, fever, and pain from nerve fibers. Corneal lesions usually heal by themselves, but antiviral treatment may reduce the inflammation. Shingles can occur in anyone exposed to the chicken pox virus, but there is an increased risk in older adults and people with a weakened immune system.

 

Herpes zoster is treated with anti-viral, pain and anti-inflammatory medications. Eye drops and ointments may be prescribed to treat ocular problems.