Shingles Cause

Shingles is a painful, blistering rash, usually appearing on the chest and back, that's caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. After a chicken pox infection, the virus can lay dormant in the body for years or decades before resurfacing as shingles.

Scleritis Symptoms

Scleritis generally causes pain and redness in the white part of the eye, possibly in conjunction with blurred vision. While shingles is one cause of scleritis, there are other possible causes. Patients who develop these symptoms after a bout with shingles should consult an opthalmologist.

Acyclovir Preferred

The prescription antiviral drug acyclovir (brand name Zovirax) generally is the first line of defense against shingles and against scleritis caused by shingles. Studies report the drug helps to alleviate pain within the first few days, especially if it is taken in the early stages of the infection.

Topical Treatments

In addition, a physician might prescribe steroid drops for the eye in an effort to reduce the pain, swelling, and redness caused by scleritis. Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drops also can be effective, family physicians say.

Pain Management

To manage the pain from shingles and swelling from scleritis caused by shingles, physicians often also prescribe some form of anti-inflammatory medication, such as Tylenol. Oral corticosteroids also can be used to combat pain from shingles and scleritis.

Source:

American Family Physician: Evaluation and Management of Herpes Zoster Opthalmicus

PubMed: American Journal of Opthalmology Scleritis Report

WebMD: Shingles Treatment Overview