Complications and Risks of Herpes

Most herpes episodes heal without lasting harm, but some situations carry real risk.

Complications of herpes simplex

• Eye infection (herpetic keratitis): pain, redness, light sensitivity and blurred vision. It can scar the cornea and needs urgent care.
• Brain infection (herpes encephalitis): fever, severe headache, confusion or seizures. It is an emergency.
• Eczema herpeticum: rapid spread on eczema skin.
• Neonatal herpes: a severe infection in newborns infected during birth or by contact.
• Spread in weak immunity: larger, longer and more painful sores.
• Meningitis and urinary retention in some genital cases.
• Higher risk of catching HIV with open genital sores.
• Emotional distress, anxiety and relationship worries.

Complications of shingles

• Postherpetic neuralgia: nerve pain that lasts months after the rash heals
• Shingles involving the eye, which can threaten sight
• Bacterial skin infection and scarring
• Facial weakness or hearing loss with some facial shingles

Pregnancy

Herpes first caught late in pregnancy carries the highest risk for the baby. Doctors may offer antivirals and a caesarean delivery in some cases.

When to call 112 or 102

Confusion, seizures, severe headache with fever, difficulty breathing, or a newborn who is unwell.

Key point

Early treatment and quick review of eye or newborn symptoms prevent most serious harm.

Before your appointment

Note when the first symptoms began, where the sores or rash are, and any fever or pain. List past episodes, triggers, partners who should know, and any pregnancy. Bring your medicines and past reports, including HIV or STI tests. Ask about antiviral options, how to protect others and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.