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Treatment for Herpes Zoster Oticus

Herpes Zoster is more familiarly known as shingles. It is a virus (varicella zoster) that causes chickenpox earlier in life and then lives in nerve cells. Later in life, it often becomes reactivated. It primarily causes a rash and is extremely painful. When this virus affects the sensory nerves of the ear, it is called herpes zoster oticus.

  1. Symptoms

    • A significant symptom of herpes zoster oticus is ear pain. There will be a rash of blister-like sores in the affected area. There may be some vertigo and/or hearing loss. Some people report a distortion in their sense of taste. If the zoster oticus affects the face, it can cause facial paralysis. In this instance, the illness is referred to as Ramsey Hunt Syndrome.

    Treatment for Pain

    • The immediate treatment for herpes zoster oticus is centered around pain relief and infection prevention. Since herpes zoster affects the nerve cells, the pain can be incredibly intense. Analgesics, usually narcotics, will be prescribed. Warm compresses can be applied for some relief. Antibiotics to address possible secondary infections may be advised.

    Antivirals and Corticosteroids

    • Antivirals are used for treatment of the virus to decrease the severity and length of the activation. Acyclovir and valocyclovir are examples of this medication. Along with the antiviral, a corticosteroid such as prednisone may be prescribed to help relieve the pain and decrease the chance of post-outbreak pain (postherpetic neuralgia).

    Postherpetic Neuralgia

    • The pain from herpes zoster oticus can continue after all other symptoms have abated (postherpetic neuralgia). In addition to analgesics, sometimes an antidepressant is prescribed. For most people, the pain is completely gone after a few months, but some (about two percent) have postherpetic neuralgia for longer than a year.

    Prognosis

    • It is rare to have shingles more than once. The only exception is in patients with AIDS due to their compromised immune systems. There is a vaccine (zostavax) that is helpful in preventing the virus or at least limiting the seriousness of herpes zoster, including oticus. It is suggested for all adults over the age of sixty.

    Warning

    • It is important to see your medical provider if you are exhibiting symptoms of herpes zoster. Early treatment can lessen the length and severity of an outbreak. As with any condition, educate yourself on the best course of action for you.

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