ear, nose, and throat disorders
Herpes Zoster Oticus
Treatment of Herpes Zoster Oticus
Sometimes corticosteroids, such asprednisone, to reduce inflammation Sometimes antiviral medications to treat the infection Sometimes Opioid Pain Relievers for pain Rarely surgery to relieve pressure on the facial nerve Doctors may give people medications to relieve their symptoms and treat herpes zoster oticus. However, it is not clear whether these medications help very much. Corticosteroids such asprednisoneare given to block inflammation. Antiviral medications such asacyclovirorvalacyclovirmay help reduce the duration of the infection and are routinely given to people whose immune system is weakened or impaired.Diazepamis given to relieve the vertigo. Opioids taken by mouth are given for severe pain. Other treatments may be given to people who have prolonged residual pain (called Postherpetic Neuralgia ). These treatments include medicated skin patches, antiseizure medications, and tricyclic antidepressants. People who have complete paralysis of the face may need a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the facial nerve. 