Shingles Medical Problems

Shingles is caused by a secondary outbreak of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox during its first outbreak. For many, the pain and rash of shingles are self-limiting, and symptoms clear up fully in a small amount of time. However, some other cases can cause lingering pain or other serious complications.

PHN

• Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most common complication of shingles. This occurs when the pain of shingles does not go away after the rash does; PHN can be both difficult to relieve and long-lasting.

Ocular Shingles

• According to Seth John Stankus, MAJ, MC, et al., shingles in the eye can lead to swelling and irritation of several layers of the eye as well as trouble with eye movement.

Encephalitis

• The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) reports that shingles can lead to encephalitis, or a swelling of the brain. This especially affects people with weakened immune systems, and can occur long after other symptoms have cleared up.

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

• A condition known as Ramsay Hunt Syndrome occurs when shingles occurs in a facial nerve. According to the Mayo Clinic, the pain from this condition can be excruciating, and the condition can lead to hearing and vision loss as well as damage to facial muscles.

Infection

• The blisters of shingles can sometimes become infected with bacteria. This can delay healing and will require additional treatment.