Hello,
Symptoms strongly suggest shingles (Herpes Zoster), likely Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus, which can threaten vision.
Tab Acyclovir 800 mg- 5 times daily for 7 days Ideally within 72 hours, but still beneficial later if new blisters or eye risk.
Paracetamol for pain relief Urgent ophthalmology evaluation is important to protect the eye and vision.
Blisters may not dry due to active infection, age, weak immunity, or secondary infection.
Keep rash clean and dry; cold compress; avoid scratching;
Go to ER urgently if eye redness/blurred vision, fever, confusion, rash spreads to both sides, or in immunocompromised patients.
Thank you
The symptoms you’re describing align quite closely with shingles, a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, particularly given the unilateral rash and pain like sensations around the eye, forehead, and top of the head. This distribution usually follows the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve. Given the involvement near the eye, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical evaluation as soon as possible. If shingles affects the eye (herpes zoster ophthalmicus), it can lead to serious complications, including vision loss. Immediate antiviral treatment is typically recommended to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. Antiviral drugs like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir are most effective when started within 72 hours of rash onset, so time is of the essence here. Pain relief can include over-the-counter options like paracetamol or ibuprofen for mild to moderate pain. If the pain is severe, or if there’s development of postherpetic neuralgia (severe pain persisting even after rash resolution), prescription medications such as gabapentin or topical lidocaine might be considered, but a healthcare professional will need to tailor this to her specific needs. Cool compresses on the rash may help soothe discomfort, and it’s vital to keep the rash clean and avoid scratching to prevent secondary infection. Remember, managing stress, maintaining her overall health through balanced diet, rest, and social support will also help during recovery. But given the potential risks associated with eye involvement, consulting with both a general practitioner and potentially an ophthalmologist would be prudent to ensure comprehensive care.
I need to see the blisters before any medication.
The symptoms you describe burning, tingling, and pain followed by a blistering rash limited to one side of the head, involving the forehead and around the eye are highly consistent with shingles (herpes zoster), particularly involving the trigeminal nerve. This form of shingles is considered urgent, especially when the eye area is involved, because it can threaten vision if not treated promptly. Antiviral medication (such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir) is most effective when started within 72 hours of rash onset, and medical evaluation should be sought as soon as possible ideally the same day. Pain relief can include paracetamol, prescribed nerve pain medications, and cool compresses, but antivirals are essential to reduce complications and long-term nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia). Given the patient’s age and eye involvement, urgent in-person medical care is strongly recommended rather than waiting or treating at home alone.
