Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful viral condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox.
Most people associate shingles with a blistering rash and sharp nerve pain, but some are surprised to find that sweating changes, particularly excessive sweating on the head or face, can also occur.
So what’s going on? Can shingles really lead to such a strange and uncomfortable symptom?
Shingles and Nerve Damage: More Than Skin Deep
Shingles tends to affect sensory nerves, causing a painful rash in a specific area of the body—usually limited to one side. However, the virus can also impact autonomic nerves, which control involuntary functions like blood pressure, digestion… and sweating.
When shingles affects areas like the face, head, or neck, the damage can disrupt normal sweating patterns. The nerves that usually regulate temperature and sweat production can begin misfiring, leading to excessive or abnormal sweating, even without heat or exertion.
Why Excessive Sweating Happens
This type of symptom is a form of autonomic dysfunction. It may happen because:
Damaged nerve fibres are sending the wrong signals to sweat glands.
The body is trying to "compensate" for reduced sweating elsewhere.
There’s cross-talk between nerves that previously had separate roles (a bit like crossed wires after an electrical fault).
In some cases, people develop a condition known as Frey’s syndrome, a type of gustatory sweating triggered by eating, but other times, the sweating is random, excessive, and unrelated to meals.
Is This Dangerous?
While not life-threatening, excessive facial or scalp sweating can be:
Embarrassing in social settings
Uncomfortable during daily activities
A clue that your nervous system is still under strain following shingles
This symptom can occur alongside other long-term effects of shingles such as:
Post-herpetic neuralgia (nerve pain that lingers after the rash has healed)
Itching, tingling, or burning
Numbness or altered sensation
What You Can Do About It
If you're experiencing excessive sweating following shingles, it’s wise to speak to your GP or a neurologist. You may be offered one of the following treatments:
Topical treatments – Clinical-strength antiperspirants or creams like glycopyrrolate
Botox injections – Can reduce sweating for several months by blocking nerve signals
Oral medications – Anticholinergics may help, though they come with side effects like dry mouth
Pain management – If you also have nerve pain, medications like gabapentin or pregabalin might help regulate nerve activity overall
Self-Care Tips
Use absorbent headbands or face cloths discreetly during flare-ups
Stay cool indoors with fans or cooling towels
Avoid hot or spicy foods, which can trigger sweating episodes
Keep a symptom diary to track patterns and triggers
Shingles can leave a lasting impact on the body, but excessive sweating on the head or face doesn’t have to be something you live with in silence. With the right support and treatment, you can manage the symptoms and regain control over your comfort and confidence.
If you're struggling with post-shingles symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice—your experience is valid, and help is available.
Have you experienced unusual symptoms after a bout of shingles? Share your story in the comments below or get in touch—we'd love to hear from you.
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