What Are the Treatments for Shingles Outbreaks on the Face?
Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a viral infection that leaves an extremely painful rash on the body and face. Caused by the same virus as the chicken pox, the varicella-zoster virus, the virus may lie dormant in the spinal cord and brain tissue for years after experiencing the chicken pox. The virus may reactivate in the form of shingles, according to the Mayo Clinic. Initial symptoms include pain, burning, numbness and tingling, followed by a rash. However, some people are diagnosed with shingles without developing a rash. Facial symptoms of shingles are serious because they can greatly affect the eyes. Symptoms of facial shingles include headache, weakness of one side of the face and facial drooping. Blisters near or close to the eye require immediate medical attention.
