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Shingles skin treatment. Shingles Treatment: Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Management

by alexxlab

What are the symptoms of shingles. How is shingles diagnosed. Can shingles be prevented. What treatments are available for shingles. How long does shingles last. Is shingles contagious. What complications can arise from shingles.

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Understanding Shingles: A Painful Skin Condition

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that causes a painful skin rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Nearly one-third of people in the United States will develop shingles at some point in their lives, with most experiencing only one episode. However, some individuals may have multiple occurrences.

It’s important to note that shingles is distinct from oral or genital herpes, which is caused by the herpes simplex virus. While both viruses belong to the same family, they are different pathogens with distinct characteristics and effects on the body.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Shingles

The primary symptom of shingles is a painful, blistering rash. However, the onset of the condition may begin with subtle signs before the rash appears:

  • Pain, itching, or tingling in a specific area of skin
  • Reddish bumps that develop into fluid-filled blisters
  • Stinging or burning sensation
  • Itching in the affected area

In addition to the characteristic rash, individuals with shingles may experience other symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

Where Does Shingles Typically Appear?

Shingles most commonly affects the trunk of the body, manifesting as a band of blisters wrapping around the torso. However, it can appear on other parts of the body as well. A key characteristic of shingles is that it typically occurs on only one side of the body, following the path of a specific nerve.

The Progression of Shingles Symptoms

The shingles rash typically follows a predictable pattern:

  1. Reddish bumps appear
  2. Bumps develop into fluid-filled blisters
  3. Blisters scab over within about a week
  4. Rash clears up in 2 to 4 weeks

After the scabs fall off, you may notice changes in skin pigmentation. In severe cases, these color changes could be permanent.

The Root Cause of Shingles: Reactivation of the Varicella-Zoster Virus

Shingles occurs when the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, reactivates in the body. After an individual recovers from chickenpox, the virus doesn’t leave the body; instead, it becomes dormant in certain nerve cells. The immune system typically keeps the virus in check, preventing it from causing further symptoms.

However, as people age or if their immune system becomes weakened, the virus may reactivate, leading to shingles. This reactivation can happen years or even decades after the initial chickenpox infection.

Who is at Risk for Developing Shingles?

While anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, certain factors increase the risk:

  • Age: People over 50 are more likely to develop shingles
  • Weakened immune system due to:
    • Cancer
    • HIV or AIDS
    • Immunosuppressive medications

It’s worth noting that individuals who have received the chickenpox vaccine are less likely to develop shingles later in life, as they have a lower risk of contracting chickenpox in the first place.

The Contagious Nature of Shingles: What You Need to Know

A common question among those diagnosed with shingles is whether they can transmit the condition to others. While shingles itself cannot be directly transmitted from person to person, the varicella-zoster virus can be spread to individuals who have never had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine.

How is the Virus Spread?

The virus resides in the blisters caused by shingles and can be transmitted until these blisters have completely healed and crusted over. If you have active shingles blisters, it’s crucial to avoid contact with certain high-risk individuals:

  • People who have never had chickenpox
  • Infants under 12 months old
  • Pregnant women
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., those with cancer or AIDS)

If you live with children who haven’t had chickenpox, it’s important to inform your doctor. These children may need to be vaccinated to prevent potential infection.

Diagnosing Shingles: The Process and Considerations

Diagnosing shingles typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, symptom evaluation, and physical examination. Your healthcare provider will likely ask about your medical history, including whether you’ve had chickenpox in the past. They will also inquire about your current symptoms and conduct a thorough inspection of the rash.

Is Laboratory Testing Necessary for Shingles Diagnosis?

While there is a test that can confirm the presence of the varicella-zoster virus, it is not routinely required for diagnosis. In most cases, the characteristic appearance of the rash and the patient’s symptoms are sufficient for a healthcare provider to make an accurate diagnosis.

However, in some cases, particularly if the presentation is atypical or if the patient has a compromised immune system, additional testing may be warranted. This could include taking a sample from the blisters for laboratory analysis.

Preventing Shingles: Vaccination and Its Importance

The most effective way to prevent shingles is through vaccination. There are two key aspects to shingles prevention through immunization:

1. Chickenpox Vaccination

Vaccinating children against chickenpox reduces their risk of contracting the varicella-zoster virus in the first place. Without a history of chickenpox infection, the risk of developing shingles later in life is significantly diminished.

2. Shingles Vaccination

For adults, the shingles vaccine is recommended for individuals 50 years of age and older. This vaccine can prevent shingles or reduce its severity if it does occur. Even people who have previously had shingles should get vaccinated to help prevent recurrence.

The shingles vaccine is generally safe, with common side effects including headache and localized reactions at the injection site such as redness, swelling, itching, and soreness.

Who Should Not Receive the Shingles Vaccine?

While the shingles vaccine is recommended for most adults over 50, there are some exceptions. The vaccine is not recommended for individuals who:

  • Have had an allergic reaction to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin
  • Are allergic to any component of the shingles vaccine
  • Have a weakened immune system due to conditions like leukemia, HIV, or AIDS
  • Are undergoing cancer treatment
  • Are taking immunosuppressive drugs, including high-dose steroids
  • Are pregnant or might become pregnant within 4 weeks of vaccination

Treatment Options for Shingles: Managing Symptoms and Complications

The treatment of shingles typically involves a multi-faceted approach aimed at reducing the severity of symptoms, shortening the duration of the illness, and preventing complications. The cornerstone of shingles treatment is antiviral medication.

Antiviral Medications for Shingles

Commonly prescribed antiviral medications for shingles include:

  • Acyclovir
  • Famciclovir
  • Valacyclovir

These medications work best when started within the first 72 hours of rash onset. They can help reduce the severity and duration of the shingles outbreak.

Additional Treatments for Symptom Management

In addition to antiviral medications, your healthcare provider may recommend:

  • Steroids: To reduce inflammation and pain
  • Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications to manage discomfort
  • Topical treatments: Calamine lotion or other soothing applications to relieve itching and discomfort

Managing Shingles Pain

Pain management is a crucial aspect of shingles treatment. Here are some strategies to help alleviate the pain associated with shingles:

  • Cool compresses: Applying cool, wet compresses to the rash can provide relief
  • Oatmeal baths: Soaking in a lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal can soothe irritated skin
  • Loose-fitting clothing: Wearing soft, loose-fitting clothes can minimize irritation to the affected area
  • Stress reduction: Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises can help manage pain

Complications of Shingles: Understanding the Risks

While most cases of shingles resolve without significant complications, some individuals may experience long-term effects or serious complications.

Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

The most common complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a condition characterized by persistent pain in the area where the shingles rash occurred. PHN can last for months or even years after the rash has healed.

What causes postherpetic neuralgia? PHN occurs when nerve fibers are damaged during the shingles outbreak. These damaged nerves continue to send pain signals to the brain even after the rash has cleared.

Other Potential Complications

Depending on the location of the shingles outbreak, other complications may occur:

  • Vision problems: If shingles affects the eye area, it can lead to vision loss
  • Hearing issues: Shingles near the ear can cause hearing loss or balance problems
  • Skin infections: Bacterial infections can occur if the rash is not properly cared for
  • Neurological problems: In rare cases, shingles can lead to encephalitis (brain inflammation) or other neurological issues

Living with Shingles: Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Adjustments

Coping with shingles can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can help manage the condition and improve quality of life during an outbreak:

1. Follow Your Treatment Plan

Adhering to the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare provider is crucial. This includes taking medications as directed and attending follow-up appointments.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

Keep the rash clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Avoid scratching the rash, as this can lead to scarring and increase the risk of infection.

3. Manage Stress

Stress can exacerbate shingles symptoms and potentially prolong recovery. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

4. Adjust Your Diet

While there’s no specific “shingles diet,” eating a balanced, nutritious diet can support your immune system and overall health. Consider incorporating foods rich in vitamins A, B12, C, and E, as well as foods high in lysine (such as fish, chicken, and eggs).

5. Stay Active

While you may need to limit certain activities during a shingles outbreak, gentle exercise can help boost your mood and support your immune system. Consult with your healthcare provider about appropriate activities.

6. Seek Support

Don’t hesitate to reach out for emotional support from friends, family, or support groups. Dealing with shingles can be emotionally taxing, and having a support system can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.

Shingles Research: Latest Developments and Future Directions

The field of shingles research is continuously evolving, with scientists and medical professionals working to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options. Here are some areas of ongoing research and potential future developments:

Improved Vaccines

Researchers are working on developing more effective vaccines that provide longer-lasting protection against shingles. This includes efforts to create vaccines that are safe and effective for individuals with compromised immune systems.

Novel Antiviral Treatments

Scientists are exploring new antiviral medications that could more effectively combat the varicella-zoster virus and reduce the severity and duration of shingles outbreaks.

Better Pain Management

Given the significant impact of pain on shingles patients, particularly those who develop postherpetic neuralgia, there is ongoing research into more effective pain management strategies. This includes investigations into new medications and non-pharmacological approaches to pain relief.

Predictive Models

Researchers are working on developing models that can help predict who is most at risk for developing shingles or experiencing complications. This could lead to more targeted prevention and early intervention strategies.

Immunology Research

Understanding the complex interactions between the varicella-zoster virus and the immune system is a key area of research. This knowledge could lead to new approaches for preventing virus reactivation and managing shingles outbreaks.

As research in these areas progresses, it holds the promise of improving outcomes for individuals affected by shingles and potentially reducing the overall burden of this condition on public health.

Shingles – Shingles Symptoms and Treatment

What is shingles?

Shingles is a painful skin rash. It is also called zoster or herpes zoster. It is caused by the varicella zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Nearly one-third of people in the United States will get shingles in their lifetime. Most people will only get it once. But some people can have more than one episode.

The virus that causes shingles is not the same virus that causes oral or genital herpes. That virus is called the herpes simplex virus. The two are in the same family of viruses.

Symptoms of shingles

Shingles usually causes a painful, blistering rash. Sometimes pain, itching, or tingling start a few days before the rash appears. The rash begins with reddish bumps. In a few days, these bumps turn into fluid-filled blisters. You might feel a stinging or burning pain. The rash might also itch. Other symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

Shingles occurs most often on the trunk of the body. It also occurs on only one side of the body. This could be a band of blisters around your back or chest. The blisters usually scab over in about a week. The rash usually clears up in 2 to 4 weeks. You may see changes in the color of your skin when the scabs fall off. In more severe cases of shingles, these color changes could be permanent.

Even though the rash from shingles gets better or goes away in a few weeks, the pain may last longer. This condition is known as post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). In most people, however, the pain of shingles goes away in 1 to 2 months.

What causes shingles?

Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you’ve had chickenpox, the virus goes dormant (inactive) in your body. It stays inside certain nerve cells. Your immune system keeps the virus in these cells. As you get older, your immune system may get weaker. If this happens, the virus may reactivate, causing shingles. Many times this happens years after you’ve had chickenpox. If you have had the chickenpox vaccine, you are less likely to get chickenpox. Therefore, you’re less likely to later develop shingles.

Most people who get shingles are over 50 years of age or have a weak immune system. For example, you might get shingles if you:

  • Have cancer
  • Take medicines that weaken your immune system
  • Have HIV or AIDS

Can I give shingles to others?

No one can catch shingles from you. But the virus can be spread to a person who has never had chickenpox. The virus lives in the blisters that shingles causes. It can be spread until the blisters are completely healed. If you have blisters that have not crusted over yet, you should stay away from:

  • Anyone who has never had chickenpox
  • Babies under 12 months old
  • Pregnant women
  • Very sick people (such as those with cancer or AIDS)

Tell your doctor if you live with children who have not had chickenpox. They may need to be vaccinated.

How is shingles diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, including if you’ve ever had chickenpox. He or she will also ask about your symptoms. They will do a physical exam and inspect your rash. There is a test that can confirm shingles, but it is not normally needed.

Can shingles be prevented or avoided?

The best way to prevent shingles is through vaccination. Vaccinate your children for chickenpox. This vaccine reduces their risk for getting chickenpox. You can’t get shingles unless you’ve had chickenpox first.

When you are older, get the shingles vaccine. It is recommended for adults 50 years of age and older. It can prevent shingles. People who have had shingles should get the vaccine to help stop the disease from reoccurring. Common side effects of the vaccine are headache, plus redness, swelling, itching, and soreness at the injection site.

The shingles vaccine is not recommended for anyone who:

  • Has had an allergic reaction to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin
  • Has an allergy to any component of the shingles vaccine
  • Has a weakened immune system due to conditions such as leukemia, HIV, or AIDS
  • Is receiving treatment for cancer
  • Is being treated with drugs that suppress their immune system, including high-dose steroids
  • Is pregnant or might become pregnant within 4 weeks of getting the vaccine

Shingles treatment

Shingles is often treated with an antiviral medicine. These medicines can reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms. Acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir are commonly prescribed. Your doctor will decide whether one of these medicines is right for you. These medicines work better if you start taking them in the first 3 days after you get the rash.

Your doctor might also have you take a steroid medicine to reduce your pain and swelling. This medicine along with the antiviral medicines may reduce your risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia.

What can I do for the pain?

To help with the pain of shingles, your doctor might have you take an over-the-counter pain medicine. This could include acetaminophen (one brand: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (two brands: Motrin, Advil).

Applying a medicated anti-itch lotion (two brands: Benadryl, Caladryl) to the blisters might reduce the pain and itching. Placing cool compresses soaked in water mixed with white vinegar on the blisters and sores might also help.

If shingles causes severe pain, your doctor might prescribe a stronger pain medicine.

Living with shingles

Most people will only get shingles once in their life. The pain and the rash resolve in 3 to 5 weeks, and the blisters don’t leave scars. There are a few complications that can occur.

The most common complication of shingles is post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). This is when the pain of shingles lasts for a long time after the rash is gone. About 10% of people who have shingles will develop PHN. It is caused by damaged nerve fibers that send exaggerated pain messages from your skin to your brain. The older you are, the more likely you are to develop PHN. It is also likely to be more severe when you are older.

Shingles can also lead to an eye condition called herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). HZO can cause a rash with small blisters to break out on the forehead and around the eye. Usually this happens only on one side of your face. Sometimes you will have pain in the same area of your face a few days before the outbreak. Infection of the eye causes extreme pain, swelling of the eyelid, light sensitivity and redness. In severe cases, the cornea can be damaged. This can affect your vision.

People who have HZO should see an eye doctor right away.

Questions to ask your doctor

  • I’ve had chickenpox. Am I at risk of developing shingles?
  • What is the best treatment for my shingles?
  • The pain from shingles isn’t going away. What can I do to make myself more comfortable?
  • I’m on treatment for shingles. When should I call my doctor if things don’t get better?
  • I have shingles and my children haven’t had the chickenpox vaccine. Should I get them vaccinated?
  • Is the shingles vaccine right for me?
  • Are there any risks associated with the shingles vaccine?
  • Will my post-herpetic neuralgia ever go away?
  • If I’ve never had the chickenpox, should I still get the shingles vaccination?

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Shingles

National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus: Shingles

Shingles Treatment, Medication, and Prevention: Pain Relief, Antiviral

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

  • Antiviral Medications for Shingles
  • Painkillers for Shingles
  • Other Medications for Shingles
  • Alternative Treatments for Shingles?
  • Self-Care for Shingles
  • Can I Prevent Shingles?
  • Who Shouldn’t Get the Shingles Vaccine?
  • More

The virus that causes chickenpox also causes shingles. It’s called varicella zoster. It can lie quietly in your nerves for decades after causing chickenpox but suddenly wake up and become active.

The main symptom of shingles is a painful rash that comes up on one side of your body or face. See your doctor as soon as you can if you think you might have this condition.

Your doctor may want to put you on medications to control your infection and speed up healing, cut inflammation, and ease your pain. They include:

These medicines may slow down the progress of the shingles rash, especially if you take them within the first 72 hours of having symptoms.

They can also lower your chance of having complications. Your doctor may prescribe:

  • Acyclovir (Sitavig, Zovirax)
  • Famciclovir (Famvir)
  • Valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about side effects to watch for if you take one of these drugs.

Shingles causesinflammation and pain. Your doctor can suggest over-the-counter medicines to relieve milder discomfort. They include:

  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen
  • Naproxen

These may also help you stave off postherpetic neuralgia, which is a burning pain that some people get after the rash and blisters of shingles go away.

If you have severe pain after the rash clears or an infection during your shingles outbreak, your doctor might prescribe:

Capsaicin cream: Be careful not to get it in your eyes.

A numbing medicine: You might get lidocaine (Lidoderm, Xylocaine) for pain. It can come in a variety of forms, such as creams, lotions, patches, powders, and sprays, among others.

Antibiotics: You might need these medicines if bacteria infect your skin and rash. But if bacteria aren’t involved, then antibiotics won’t help.

Tricyclic antidepressants: These medications might help ease the pain that lingers after your skin has healed, such as amitriptyline, desipramine (Norpramin), and nortriptyline (Pamelor). They may also help you with depression, if you have that in addition to shingles. Your doctor can tell you what the risks and benefits are.

Some studies show that various alternative treatments, from acupuncture to supplements, can offer relief. The research isn’t complete, but some show promise. Check with your doctor before you try any of these: 

TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation). This therapy uses tiny electrical pulses to relieve pain. A TENS unit is about the size of a smartphone and comes with small patches called electrodes. You put them over the painful area and turn the unit on and off as your pain comes and goes. 

Traditional Chinese medicine. These treatments aim to restore balance in your body. They include acupuncture, the ancient practice of inserting very thin needles into your skin at specific points. Also, moxibustion and cupping, two types of heat therapy, are supposed to draw out toxins. These treatments may be done in combination.

Creams and other skin treatments. A mixture of liquid dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and idoxuridine, an antiviral drug, may reduce swelling and the number of blisters you have when you put it on your rash. And chlorophyll, the chemical that gives plants their green color, is also used directly on the rash as a cream or saline solution. 

Supplements. You’ll find a long list of herbs, pills, and oils that claim to relieve shingles. Most have no research to back them up, but there are a couple of exceptions. Papain, a protein found in papayas, is sold in capsules. And manuka and clover honeys can be put directly on your skin. Very early studies on both show they might be helpful. 

There aren’t home remedies for shingles. But there are things you can do to help your skin heal.

Keep the affected area clean, dry, and exposed to air as much as possible.

The itching can be maddening at times, but try not to scratch or burst the blisters.

Soothe the rash. Your top priority is to find relief for the pain and itching that the rash causes. You might try:

1. Oatmeal baths. Dip into a cool tub of water. For extra relief, add colloidal oatmeal, which is made of oats that have been ground to a very fine powder. This soothing bath may help calm your itching.

2. Cold compresses. Run a washcloth under cool water and place it on your blisters for about 20 minutes at a time. Not only can this relieve itching, it also keeps your blisters clean. That can help you avoid a skin infection. If your blisters aren’t oozing anymore, stop using cold compresses. And if you are using any creams or patches on your rash, don’t use compresses at the same time.

3. Loose clothing. You’ll likely find that relaxed fits made from natural fibers, such as cotton or linen, give you more comfort. If you need to cover your blisters, avoid bandages that might stick to your rash.

4. Calamine lotion. Treat your skin with this smooth, cool, and soothing balm.  

Treat your body and mind. You can get worn down mentally when you’re in constant pain. Stress can make it seem even worse. Self-care starts with treating your rash, but don’t stop there. Your mind and emotional state need to be cared for as well. 

Stick with good habits: Your body is working hard to fight the varicella zoster virus that causes shingles. To give it the right support, you can:

  • Eat nutritious food and have regular meals. Ask someone to make a run to the grocery store for fresh fruit and such if you’re not up for it.
  • Try to get a good night’s sleep and rest anytime you need to.
  • Do gentle exercises, such as walking or stretching. Light activity can help take your mind off the pain. Keep it simple though, and check with your doctor if you’re trying something new.

Distract yourself. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is to put your focus elsewhere. Here are a few things to try:

  • Call a friend.
  • Listen to music that relaxes you.
  • Read a book.
  • Watch a favorite movie.
  • Work on hobbies you enjoy.

Keep calm. Relaxation can be a big help. With a calmer mind, you can better handle your discomfort. You may want to try:

  • Meditation
  • Tai chi
  • Walking (but keep your blisters covered)
  • Yoga

Experiment with these strategies as you get through your shingles outbreak. Different things can help depending on how severe your symptoms are and how you feel from day to day.

There are two shingles vaccines. Shingrix is the recommended vaccine. Zostavax is no longer avilable in the U.S.

Who should get it: The CDC recommends that you get this vaccine if you’re a healthy adult age 50 or older, whether or not you remember having had chickenpox, because most people have been exposed to the virus. If you have had the Zostavax vaccine, you can also get Shingrix.

How many shots do you need? You would need two shots for Shingrix: One at first, with a follow-up in 2 to 6 months.

What it does: Shingrix reduces your chance of getting shingles by more than 90%. Even if you still get shingles, the vaccine may help it be less painful.

I never had chickenpox. Do I still need the shingles vaccine? Yes, you do. Shingrix is recommended for everyone age 50 or older, whether or not you remember having had chickenpox.

If I’ve had shingles, can I still get the vaccine? Yes. It may help prevent another bout of shingles later on. If you have shingles right now, you should wait until the rash is gone before you get vaccinated.

What are the side effects? The most common side effects with Shingrix include pain and swelling where the needle went in you skin, muscle pain, tiredness, headache, chills, fever, and stomach troubles. With any vaccine, there is a chance of a severe allergic reaction. 

Don’t get the Shingrix vaccine if:

  • You’re allergic to any of the ingredients.
  • You’re pregnant or nursing.
  • You have tested negative for immunity to the chickenpox virus. Ask your doctor about the chickenpox vaccine instead.
  • You have shingles now.

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Herpes zoster: symptoms and treatment of herpes disease

Shingles is a viral disease that can occur at any age. The cause of its occurrence is the human herpesvirus type III or the varicella-zoster virus, which is activated in the body when the immune system is weakened. Immediate treatment of shingles is mandatory, because a sick person is a danger to others. The fluid inside the bubbles that appear on his body is contagious.

It is difficult to identify the disease in the early stages, because its incubation period varies significantly, and the first signs are often common to many pathologies. Feeling unwell, itching and a rash on the body should be a signal to contact Polet Podology Clinic. The medical center employs qualified specialists who are able to quickly and accurately differentiate the disease, take everything necessary for the speedy recovery of the patient.

Symptoms and causes

The provocateur of the disease is the causative agent of chicken pox, the herpes virus Varicella zoster. Translated from the Greek “Zoster” means “belt”. Skin lesions are limited and resemble belt marks. For the first time, a person encounters a virus when infected with chickenpox. After an illness, the body develops a defense mechanism against infection. However, the virus itself does not die, but persists in body tissues. Re-infection becomes possible with a decrease in immunity, the development of chronic diseases.

The sphere of influence of the virus: cells of nerve fibers, skin. Considering the symptoms and treatment of shingles, we will study the signs that you should immediately pay attention to:

  • feeling unwell, weak, lack of strength;
  • slight increase in body temperature;
  • anorexia, indigestion, nausea;
  • swollen lymph nodes, nasal congestion, sore throat;
  • slight chills accompanied by discomfort in areas of future development of the rash.

In children, shingles develops rapidly. In adults, this period takes up to 4-10 days. But another clinical picture is also possible, when the disease develops acutely, at a rapid pace. In this case, the temperature rises sharply to 38-39 degrees, headaches appear, the body is covered with chills, and rashes spread over the skin: pink spots. They do not differ in large sizes, their diameter is 2-5 mm. A day after the appearance of the spots, blisters with a clear liquid appear on the skin, causing itching and pain.

Types and forms of herpes zoster

Treatment of symptoms of herpes zoster in adults in practice takes up to 15-20 days. Viral pathology can cause different forms of the disease:

  • Gangliocutaneous – the rapid development of the disease, acute fever, migraine, lack of strength. The pain subsides after the appearance of rashes.
  • Ophthalmic – vesicles (fluid-filled vesicles) affect the eyes, nose, and pass from the skin to the mucous membranes. A complication is keratitis, glaucoma, iritis, paralysis of the nerves of the face.
  • Ear – suffers from the external auditory canal, the outer shell.
  • Gangrenous – typical for weakened people with oncology or diabetes. Ulcerative foci develop on the body, they get wet, do not heal, leave scars.
  • Bullous – the fusion of single blisters into ribbon-like formations, often accompanied by a purulent infection.
  • Generalized – more likely with a decline in the immune system. The entire body is covered with vesicles, the mucous membranes are affected.
  • Abortive – pink spots appear on the body, and then disappear without a trace. This form often goes unnoticed by the patient due to mild symptoms.

Disease diagnosis

The diagnosis is made on the basis of examination, visual examination, identification of patient complaints. The specialist takes a scraping for laboratory study of the material. If the virus was transmitted to the child from the mother during fetal development, at birth, IgM anti VZV antibodies are present in his blood, indicating infection.

In adults, the varicella-zoster virus is shown by serological methods of investigation. To do this, blood is screened to detect viral envelope proteins or antibodies produced by the body to protect against an infectious agent. Laboratory methods also include PCR technology, which allows you to search for virus DNA fragments in vesicular fluid, blood. For more information about the patient’s health status, it is recommended to take blood tests to identify the general formula, biochemical parameters.

Herpes zoster treatment

It is unacceptable to use folk methods in the treatment of shingles, which the Internet provides upon request. The therapeutic course is developed only under the supervision of a doctor. It is individual for each patient and involves an integrated approach to the organization of treatment. Therapy may include drugs: antiviral series, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs to relieve acute discomfort, pain, burning of the skin.

It is recommended to take vitamins to strengthen the immune system and restore strength. If necessary, antibiotics are used. Local irrigation of lesions with immunostimulating drugs and disinfectants may be prescribed to prevent tissue decay. Detoxification can be carried out by infusion methods (installation of droppers) to purify the blood, remove toxins from the body, toxins, poisons formed as a result of the vital activity of the virus.

Benefits of treatment at Polet Clinic

Our doctors constantly improve their skills, enrich their knowledge and get acquainted with new methods of work. This allows them to successfully diagnose even the most complex forms of the disease, develop and put into practice effective treatment regimens. Specialists practice and exchange experience with experts from the departments of purulent surgery and skin diseases of the leading hospital complexes in Moscow. Knowing this, you can be sure of the high quality of our services.

Treatment in the clinic takes place in conditions of confidentiality. By contacting us, you will receive qualified assistance at affordable prices. The cost of procedures is indicated in the price list. You can ask additional questions and sign up for a consultation through the feedback form on the website or by phone +7 (495) 640-68-10.

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Work examples

Case 1

A 25-year-old patient came to the clinic with complaints of rashes on the skin of the lumbar region. On examination, she was diagnosed with herpes zoster and prescribed antiviral treatment.

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Specialists

Yuliana Albertovna NikolenkoDermatovenereologist, experience – 37 yearsMake an appointmentSpecialist card

Sabirova Lola MahmujonovnaCosmetologist, dermatovenereologist, trichologist, PhD, experience – 23 yearsMake an appointmentSpecialist card

Sadokhina Irina AlexandrovnaD dermatovenereologist, podiatrist, cosmetologist, experience — 9 yearsSign up for an appointmentSpecialist Card

Vakhnina Ekaterina SergeevnaDermatovenereologist, experience – 4 yearsMake an appointmentSpecialist Card

Koroleva Tatyana Vasilievna Dermatovenereologist, trichologist, experience — 4 yearsMake an appointmentSpecialist card venereologist, cosmetologist, trichologist, experience — 7 yearsMake an appointmentSpecialist card

Price list Shingles (Herpes zoster)

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Herpes zoster treatment consultation in St.

Petersburg private clinic ID-CLINIC

Herpes zoster treatment consultation in St. Petersburg private clinic ID-CLINIC

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St. Petersburg, Ivana Chernykh st., 25A

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  • Shingles

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Herpes zoster (shingles or Varicella zoster) is an infection of the skin and nervous system that occurs when reactivation herpesvirus type 3 Varicella zoster . The causative agent affects a person even in childhood and becomes the cause of chickenpox, and after recovery remains in the nerve ganglia for life. In most people, the virus does not manifest itself in any way, but with a decrease in immunity, it begins to multiply and causes symptoms similar to Herpes zoster.

The initial period of the disease

The prodromal symptoms of herpes zoster are similar to those of other infections. A person experiences weakness, malaise, decreased performance. The body temperature rises, an increase in one or more groups of lymph nodes is possible. Burning, itching, numbness or tingling is felt on the skin in places of future rashes, and intense pain develops after a few days. The prodromal period lasts up to 7 days.

Typical symptoms

Herpes zoster is manifested by rashes on the body, which are localized on one side and affect a limited area of ​​the skin. The location of the rash corresponds to the zone of innervation of the affected nerve and is accompanied by herpetic neuritis . First, pink spots appear, which quickly transform into small bubbles. Over time, the bubbles open or shrink. Inflammatory elements heal through the stage of crusts and hyperpigmentation.

Possible complications

When herpes zoster is most often observed damage to the nervous system in the form of postherpetic neuralgia , herpetic meningoencephalitis, transverse myelitis, paresis of the facial nerve. Bacterial complications include pustular infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, with a generalized form of the disease, pneumonia may develop. The risk of complications increases in debilitated and elderly patients.

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Atypical forms

● Abortive – Herpes zoster with minimal symptoms, no skin rash.
● Bullous – skin rash is presented in the form of large blisters with transparent contents.
● Hemorrhagic – blisters on the skin are filled with blood, when they heal, brown crusts form.
● Gangrenous – a deep skin lesion with the formation of poorly healing ulcers, after which scars remain.
● Generalized – rashes spread over a large area of ​​the skin, forming confluent foci.

Doctor’s consultation

It is recommended to visit a specialist already at the first signs of infection, when a person experiences an unpleasant burning sensation and soreness on the skin. With such symptoms, it is necessary to contact a dermatologist , and in case of postherpetic neuritis – a neurologist . The ID-Clinic doctor conducts a general examination, collects an anamnesis, and identifies risk factors. If necessary, special diagnostics are prescribed: serological analysis (ELISA), virus DNA isolation using PCR, virological and microscopic methods.

Prevention of herpes zoster

The most reliable way to protect yourself from infection is timely vaccination . Both primary vaccination of herpes zoster in risk groups (older people, debilitated patients, taking immunosuppressive drugs, people living with HIV) and secondary vaccination in patients with recurrent herpes zoster are carried out. For the purpose of specific prophylaxis, the Varilrix vaccine is used, which is administered twice with an interval of 4-6 weeks.

Herpes zoster treatment

Etiotropic drugs
In all cases of herpes zoster, antiherpetic agents of the acyclovir group are used. In addition to them, interferon preparations and interferon inducers may be prescribed.
Pathogenic therapy
The main goal is to relieve pain. For this purpose, NSAIDs, opioid analgesics, anticonvulsants and antidepressants can be used. To eliminate other signs of the disease, antihistamines, antipyretics and anti-inflammatory drugs are used.
Local treatment
To treat areas of rashes on the skin, ointments with antiviral components, alcohol solutions of aniline dyes, and antiseptic solutions are prescribed. If the rash passes to the mucous membranes, astringents and anti-inflammatory drugs are indicated.

Follow-up

Patients who have had uncomplicated herpes zoster and do not have risk factors do not require medical supervision. The remaining groups of patients are on dispensary records for 1-3 years. Such people are recommended to regularly come for examinations to a neurologist, to take a set of laboratory tests. Dispensary observation and timely correction of the state of health reduce the risk of Herpes zoster recurrence in high-risk groups.

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ID-Clinic specialists accept patients by appointment. To choose a convenient date and time for visiting a doctor, leave a request in the form on this page, and we will contact you.

Cost of clinic services

Inspection

Get service

B01. 014.001.001

Primary appointment (examination, consultation) with an infectious disease specialist

3000 ₽

B01.023.001

Primary appointment (examination, consultation) with a neurologist

3000 ₽

B01.008.001

Primary appointment (examination, consultation) with a dermatovenereologist

3000 ₽

Online consultation of an infectious disease specialist

3000 ₽

Online consultation with a venereologist

3500 ₽

Online GP consultation

3000 ₽

Online consultation with a neurologist

3000 ₽

Tests

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031001

Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV), DNA qualitative determination

390. 00 RUB

Other clinic services

Dermatologist

Chickenpox vaccination

Online consultation with a neurologist

Online consultation with an infectious disease specialist

  • SavchenkoMikhail Andreevich

    Infectionist,
    Hepatologist,
    Doctor of the first category,
    Candidate of Medical Sciences