Definition
A rash that is localized around the eyes cannot be defined as an independent clinical picture. Rather, it is a kind of symptom that can be an expression of various diseases and causes. The term “skin rash” is also usually misunderstood.
A skin rash (exanthema) is a generalized sowing of uniform skin changes, which are called efflorescences. This means, for example, the appearance of small red spots on almost the entire body. In colloquial language, however, skin rashes are usually understood to mean skin changes and eczema limited to a certain part of the body.
Skin rashes affecting the eyes can occur on one or both sides. They can be very different in their extent and can affect individual areas, such as the eyelids, as well as the entire skin around the eyes. A rash that presents itself around the entire eye is also called periocular.
Causes
The causes for a rash around the eyes are very diverse. There are infectious, inflammatory, allergic and autoimmune rashes that can present around the eyes. In the following section, the most important causes of rashes around the eyes will be described.
1. herpes zoster of the eyes: Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, can specifically affect one eye. In this case it is called ophtalmicus zoster. Typical are reddish skin changes, blisters and swellings in the area of the eye, forehead and the bridge of the nose of one half of the face.
The accompanying symptoms are fever, pain in the affected area and a feeling of pressure over the eye. In the worst case, vision can be impaired, which is why a zoster of the eye always requires an ophthalmological examination. Alcohol consumption can lead to a deterioration in the appearance of the skin, especially in people with allergies or atopic dermatitis.
Redness in the area of the eyes can be more severe. Rarely, alcohol itself is the triggering allergen, causing allergic eczema. Typical symptoms are redness, a blotchy skin appearance, itching and a feeling of dryness in the eyes.
Tears and burning of the eyes can also occur. Stress is an often underestimated factor that can lead to the worsening or outbreak of many diseases. Especially on the skin stress has a very big influence.
Pronounced stress, emotional and psychological strain lead to a worsening of the skin condition, especially in the case of neurodermatitis. Skin rashes around the eyes can be the result. In some cases, the onset of shingles can also be attributed to particularly stressful phases of life. Shingles can affect one eye, but it can also occur in other parts of the body.
