text: Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is caused by the same virus responsible for chicken pox.  After the initial exposure, herpes zoster lies dormant in certain nerve fibers.   It may become active as a result of many factors such as:  aging, stress, suppression of the immune system, and certain medication.  Because of the layout of the nerves that herpes zoster resides in, it only affects one side of the body or face during an outbreak.  It begins as a rash that lead to blisters and sores on the skin.  When the nerve branch that supplies the eye is involved, the forehead, nose, and eyelids may also be affected.  Sores on the nose are a key signal of possible eye involvement.   \nHerpes zoster can cause several problems with the eye and surrounding skin that may have long term effects.  Inflammation and scarring of the cornea, along with conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva) and iritis (inflammation of the iris) are typical problems that require treatment.  \nMany who experience this infection find it extremely painful.