Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Herpes zoster ophthalmicus, also known as ophthalmic zoster, is caused by reactivation of varicella zoster virus. After reactivation it spreads to ophthalmic nerve. The symptoms are limited to rash on forehead and swelling of eyelid. Other symptoms include eye pain, light sensitivity and eye redness. Complictaions include visual loss and increased pressure in eye. Before the onset of infection, the patient complains of tingling on forehead with fever. Lesions, blisters or blisters are not necessarily present.