Signs and Symptoms

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.   

Problems affecting the body

• Flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, fatigue)
• Rash
• Red, sensitive, sore skin
• Blisters and sores on the skin
• Pain (may be burning or throbbing), itching and tingling

• Redness  
• Light sensitivity
• Swollen eyelids
• Dry eyes
• Blurred vision (depending on how the eye is affected)
• Corneal inflammation that may lead to scarring
• Inflammation inside the eye and optic nerve
• Glaucoma
• Cataract
• Double vision
• Loss of sensation