Herpes zoster, or shingles, is a condition caused by the virus that causes chicken pox. After remaining dormant in nerves within the body for a period of time, the virus reactivates, causing a painful, blistering rash on the trunk, buttocks, face, eyes, ears or other parts of the body. Although herpes zoster usually resolves on its own, or with minor antiviral or pain treatments, it can sometimes lead to serious and painful complications.
Postherpetic Neuralgia
Postherpetic neuralgia is characterized by symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness or itching. According to the Mayo Clinic, the condition develops when herpes zoster damages nerve fibers, causing them to transmit abnormal signals from the skin to the brain. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that these symptoms may persist for a long time after the herpes zoster rash has disappeared, possibly lasting for years. Postherpetic neuralgia is particularly common among older patients. Medications to block damaged nerves and relieve pain can provide some relief of symptoms until the condition resolves.
Infection
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, bacteria may infect herpes zoster blisters, prolonging the healing process and causing increased pain and skin redness. Without antibiotics or other prompt medical attention, bacterial infections can lead to permanent scarring. The National Institutes of Health also advises that people whose immune systems are compromised due to age or illness such as HIV, cancer or diabetes, may be at increased risk of developing sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection.
Vision and Hearing Loss
Ophthalmic shingles, or herpes zoster infections occurring in or near the eye tissue, can lead to severe pain, partial vision loss or, in some cases, blindness. Further, the National Institutes of Health reports that hearing loss or deafness can also occur as a complication of herpes zoster infections of the ear.
Other Neurological Complications
The Mayo Clinic advises that herpes zoster can cause a number of neurological problems, depending upon which nerves it affects. Potential complications include temporary or permanent paralysis of muscles in the face, dizziness and balance problems, hearing loss and encephalitis, a life-threatening inflammation of the tissue surrounding the brain. According to the National Institutes of Health, herpes zoster can also sometimes lead to the development of Ramsay Hunt syndrome--a condition caused by infection of the facial nerve. Ramsay Hunt causes weakness in facial muscles, a blistering rash on the inner or outer ear, roof of the mouth or tongue, and pain, ringing, or hearing loss in the affected ear(s).
