Final answer:
The recommended action for a patient experiencing symptoms of herpes zoster, particularly when involving the eye area, is to seek immediate medical attention for assessment and treatment with antiviral medication. Skipping treatment or only applying warm compresses without medical advice could lead to complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Recommended Action for Herpes Zoster
Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes a painful skin rash in a dermatomal distribution. When it involves the area of the trigeminal nerve affecting the eye and ocular adnexa, it requires prompt medical attention.
A patient experiencing the symptoms of herpes zoster should seek immediate medical attention (D). This allows healthcare professionals to assess for potential complications and administer antiviral medication (C), like acyclovir, to reduce the severity and length of the symptoms and decrease the risk of complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.
It is important not to delay treatment, as early intervention can help mitigate the symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Applying warm compresses (B) may provide some symptomatic relief, but is not a substitute for antiviral therapy. Referring to an optometrist or ophthalmologist is critical for ocular involvement, as untreated eye infections can lead to severe complications, including vision loss.