Shingles

I have recently been diagnosed with Shingles (Herpes Zoster Varicella) which is present on my left flank extending around to my back.  Although I have no visable lesions on my face, today my left eye lid is drooping and It feels heavy as if it is swollen.  Is it possible the shingles are now under my eye lid?  The asymetry to my face (eyes) is very noticible- what are your recommendations and will this resolve allowing my eye lid to return to proper proportion?

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

I have seen about a hundred cases of herpes zoster around the eyes and have not yet seen it associated with an attack in another area of the body at the same time.  I am not clear what is going on with your eyelid but your description has raised enough red flags that I strongly recommend you see an ophthalmologist right away.  It is possible that the lid is swollen because you have been lying in such a way due to the shingles related pain that you are getting passive edema of the eyelid.  It could be some more serious.  See an ophthalmologist right away.

Michael Kutryb, MD
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
Titusville, FL