What is the medical term for shingles. How does shingles develop in the body. What are the main symptoms of shingles. Who is at higher risk of developing shingles. How is shingles diagnosed and treated. What complications can arise from shingles. How can shingles be prevented.

The Nature of Shingles: Unveiling Herpes Zoster

Shingles, medically known as Herpes Zoster, is a painful, blistering skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This virus belongs to the herpes family and is the same culprit behind chickenpox. Understanding the nature of shingles is crucial for early detection and proper management of this condition.

The varicella-zoster virus exhibits a unique characteristic: after causing chickenpox, it doesn’t leave the body. Instead, it becomes dormant in certain nerves, lying in wait for years or even decades. When the virus reactivates, it manifests as shingles, typically affecting a specific area of the body.

The Chickenpox Connection

Can you develop shingles without having had chickenpox? The answer is no. Every case of shingles is linked to a previous chickenpox infection, even if it was so mild that the person doesn’t remember having it. This connection underscores the importance of chickenpox vaccination in preventing future shingles outbreaks.

Recognizing Shingles: Key Symptoms and Warning Signs

Identifying shingles early can lead to more effective treatment and reduced risk of complications. The initial symptoms often appear before any visible rash, making it crucial to be aware of the warning signs.

• Pain, tingling, or burning sensation on one side of the body
• Red patches on the skin, followed by small blisters
• Fever and chills
• General feeling of illness
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Swollen lymph nodes

The characteristic shingles rash typically appears as a narrow band wrapping around from the spine to the front of the abdomen or chest. In some cases, it may affect the face, eyes, mouth, and ears. The blisters eventually break, form crusts, and fall off within 2 to 3 weeks, usually without scarring.

Facial Shingles: A Special Case

When shingles affects a facial nerve, it can lead to additional symptoms:

• Difficulty moving facial muscles
• Drooping eyelid (ptosis)
• Hearing loss
• Loss of eye motion
• Taste problems
• Vision issues

These symptoms highlight the importance of seeking prompt medical attention when facial shingles is suspected.

Risk Factors: Who’s More Likely to Develop Shingles?

While shingles can occur at any age, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

1. Age: Individuals over 60 are at higher risk
2. Early chickenpox: Those who had chickenpox before age 1
3. Weakened immune system: Due to medications or diseases
4. Stress: High levels of stress can trigger shingles outbreaks
5. Certain medications: Some drugs may increase the risk

Understanding these risk factors can help individuals and healthcare providers take appropriate preventive measures and maintain vigilance for early signs of shingles.

Diagnosing Shingles: From Visual Examination to Laboratory Tests

How do healthcare providers diagnose shingles? The process typically begins with a visual examination of the skin and a review of the patient’s medical history. In most cases, this is sufficient for an accurate diagnosis. However, in some instances, additional tests may be necessary.

Diagnostic Tools and Techniques

• Skin sample: A small sample of the affected skin may be taken to confirm the presence of the virus
• Blood tests: These can reveal an increase in white blood cells and antibodies to the chickenpox virus
• PCR test: Polymerase chain reaction can detect the virus’s DNA in skin samples

It’s important to note that while blood tests can show an immune response, they cannot definitively confirm that a specific rash is due to shingles. The combination of clinical presentation and laboratory results provides the most accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Approaches: Managing Shingles Effectively

Once diagnosed, prompt treatment of shingles is crucial to reduce pain, prevent complications, and shorten the duration of the illness. The cornerstone of shingles treatment is antiviral medication.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral drugs are most effective when started within 72 hours of the first symptoms. They work by fighting the virus directly, helping to:

• Reduce pain intensity and duration
• Accelerate healing of the rash
• Prevent potential complications
• Shorten the overall course of the disease

Common antiviral medications prescribed for shingles include acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. These are typically administered in pill form, but in severe cases or for patients with compromised immune systems, intravenous administration may be necessary.

Pain Management and Symptom Relief

In addition to antiviral drugs, other medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and provide relief:

• Corticosteroids: To reduce swelling and pain
• Antihistamines: To alleviate itching
• Pain medications: Including over-the-counter and prescription options
• Capsaicin cream: To reduce pain through topical application

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using these medications to ensure maximum benefit and minimize potential side effects.

Home Care and Self-Management Strategies

While medical treatment is essential, there are several steps patients can take at home to manage their symptoms and promote healing:

• Apply cool, wet compresses to reduce pain and itching
• Take soothing baths with colloidal oatmeal or baking soda
• Rest in bed until fever subsides
• Wear loose, cotton clothing to avoid irritating the rash
• Keep the affected area clean and dry to prevent bacterial infection
• Avoid scratching or picking at the rash to prevent scarring and infection

Additionally, it’s important for those with active shingles to avoid contact with individuals who have never had chickenpox, especially pregnant women, as they could contract chickenpox from exposure to the shingles rash.

Potential Complications: Understanding the Risks

While most cases of shingles clear up within 2 to 3 weeks without significant long-term effects, complications can occur, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

Postherpetic Neuralgia

One of the most common and troublesome complications of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). This condition involves persistent pain in the area where the shingles rash occurred, lasting months or even years after the rash has healed. PHN is more likely to affect individuals over 60 and can significantly impact quality of life.

Other Potential Complications

• Bacterial skin infections
• Vision problems or blindness (if shingles affects the eye)
• Hearing loss or balance issues
• Ramsay Hunt syndrome (when shingles affects facial nerves)
• Encephalitis or sepsis in immunocompromised individuals

These potential complications underscore the importance of early treatment and careful monitoring of shingles cases, particularly in high-risk individuals.

Prevention Strategies: Vaccines and Lifestyle Measures

While it’s not always possible to prevent shingles, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the condition or experiencing severe symptoms.

Shingles Vaccine

The shingles vaccine is a powerful tool in preventing outbreaks and reducing the severity of symptoms if shingles does occur. It’s important to note that the shingles vaccine is different from the chickenpox vaccine.

• Recommended for adults 50 and older
• Significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles
• Can lessen the severity and duration of symptoms if shingles does occur
• May help prevent postherpetic neuralgia

The current recommended vaccine is Shingrix, which is given in two doses, 2 to 6 months apart. It’s more than 90% effective in preventing shingles in people 50 and older.

Lifestyle Measures

In addition to vaccination, certain lifestyle measures may help reduce the risk of shingles or minimize its impact:

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or counseling
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in immune-boosting nutrients
• Get adequate sleep to support immune function
• Exercise regularly to promote overall health and stress reduction
• Avoid known triggers if you’ve had shingles before

By combining vaccination with healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing shingles and its associated complications.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags and Emergency Situations

While many cases of shingles can be managed at home with prescribed medications, certain situations require immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to recognize these red flags to prevent serious complications.

Symptoms Requiring Prompt Medical Care

• Severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers
• Rash or pain near the eye, as this can lead to permanent vision damage if left untreated
• Widespread rash covering a large area of the body
• High fever (over 101.3°F or 38.5°C) accompanying the rash
• Signs of bacterial infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus around the rash
• Dizziness, confusion, or difficulty thinking clearly
• Rash in individuals with weakened immune systems

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Emergency Situations

In some cases, shingles can lead to emergency situations that require immediate medical attention:

• Sudden vision changes or eye pain when shingles affects the face
• Severe headache accompanied by fever and neck stiffness, which could indicate meningitis
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain, particularly in older adults
• Signs of stroke, such as sudden weakness on one side of the body or difficulty speaking

These situations are rare but can be life-threatening. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Living with Shingles: Coping Strategies and Support

Dealing with shingles can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Implementing effective coping strategies and seeking support can significantly improve the experience of living with this condition.

Pain Management Techniques

Beyond prescribed medications, several non-pharmacological approaches can help manage pain:

• Applying cold or hot packs to the affected area
• Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
• Using distraction methods like listening to music or engaging in a hobby
• Wearing loose, cotton clothing to minimize skin irritation
• Trying complementary therapies like acupuncture (with your doctor’s approval)

Emotional Support and Mental Health

The pain and discomfort of shingles can take a toll on mental health. Consider these strategies:

• Join a support group for individuals with shingles or chronic pain
• Speak with a therapist or counselor about coping with the condition
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga
• Stay connected with friends and family for emotional support
• Engage in activities you enjoy to maintain a positive outlook

Remember, it’s normal to feel frustrated or down when dealing with shingles. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re struggling emotionally.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms and promote healing:

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule to support immune function
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Stay hydrated to support overall health
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco, which can interfere with healing
• Modify your work or daily routine as needed to accommodate rest and recovery

By implementing these strategies and seeking appropriate support, individuals with shingles can better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life during the recovery process.

Shingles: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Shingles is a painful, blistering skin rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, a member of the herpes family of viruses. This is the virus that also causes chickenpox.

After you get chickenpox, your body does not get rid of the virus. Instead, the virus remains in the body but is inactive (becomes dormant) in certain nerves in the body. Shingles occurs after the virus becomes active again in these nerves after many years. Many people had such a mild case of chickenpox that they do not realize they have had the infection.

The reason the virus suddenly becomes active again is not clear. Often only one attack occurs.

Shingles can develop in any age group. You are more likely to develop the condition if:

• You are older than age 60
• You had chickenpox before age 1
• Your immune system is weakened by medicines or disease

If an adult or child has direct contact with the shingles rash and did not have chickenpox as a child or get the chickenpox vaccine, they can develop chickenpox, not shingles.

The first symptom is usually pain, tingling, or burning that occurs on one side of the body. The pain and burning may be severe and are usually present before any rash appears.

Red patches on the skin, followed by small blisters, form in most people:

• The blisters break, forming small sores that begin to dry and form crusts. The crusts fall off in 2 to 3 weeks. Scarring is rare.
• The rash usually involves a narrow area from the spine around to the front of the abdomen or chest.
• The rash may instead involve the face, eyes, mouth, and ears.

Other symptoms may include:

• Fever and chills
• General ill feeling
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Swollen glands (lymph nodes)

You may also have pain, muscle weakness, and a rash involving different parts of your face if shingles affects a nerve in your face. The symptoms may include:

• Difficulty moving some of the muscles in the face
• Drooping eyelid (ptosis)
• Hearing loss
• Loss of eye motion
• Taste problems
• Vision problems

Your health care provider can make the diagnosis by looking at your skin and asking about your medical history.

Tests are rarely needed, but may include taking a skin sample to see if the skin is infected with the virus.

Blood tests may show an increase in white blood cells and antibodies to the chickenpox virus. But the tests cannot confirm that the rash is due to shingles.

Your provider may prescribe a medicine that fights the virus, called an antiviral drug. This drug helps reduce pain, prevent complications, and shorten the course of the disease.

The medicines are most effective when started within 72 hours of when you first feel pain or burning. It is best to start taking them before the blisters appear. The medicines are usually given in pill form. Some people may need to receive the medicine through a vein (by IV).

Strong anti-inflammatory medicines called corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be used to reduce swelling and pain. These medicines do not work in all people.

Other medicines may include:

• Antihistamines to reduce itching (taken by mouth or applied to the skin)

• Pain medicines

• Zostrix, a cream containing capsaicin (an extract of pepper) to reduce pain

Follow your provider’s instructions about how to care for yourself at home.

Other measures may include:

• Caring for your skin by applying cool, wet compresses to reduce pain, and taking soothing baths
• Resting in bed until the fever goes down

Stay away from people while your sores are oozing to avoid infecting those who have never had chickenpox — especially pregnant women.

Herpes zoster usually clears in 2 to 3 weeks and rarely returns. If the virus affects the nerves that control movement (the motor nerves), you may have temporary or permanent weakness or paralysis.

Sometimes the pain in the area where the shingles occurred may last from months to years. This pain is called postherpetic neuralgia.

It occurs when the nerves have been damaged after an outbreak of shingles. Pain ranges from mild to very severe. Postherpetic neuralgia is more likely to occur in people age 60 or over.

Complications may include:

• Another attack of shingles
• Bacterial skin infections
• Blindness (if shingles occurs in the eye)
• Deafness
• Infection, including encephalitis or sepsis (blood infection) in people with a weakened immune system
• Ramsay Hunt syndrome if shingles affects the nerves of the face or ear

Contact your provider if you have symptoms of shingles, particularly if you have a weakened immune system or if your symptoms persist or worsen. Shingles that affects the eye may lead to permanent blindness if you do not receive emergency medical care.

Do not touch the rash and blisters on people with shingles or chickenpox if you have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine.

The shingles vaccine is different than the chickenpox vaccine. Older adults who receive the shingles vaccine are much less likely to have complications from the condition.

Herpes zoster – shingles

• Herpes zoster (shingles) on the back
• Adult dermatome
• Shingles
• Herpes zoster (shingles) – close-up of lesion
• Herpes zoster (shingles) on the neck and cheek
• Herpes zoster (shingles) on the hand
• Herpes zoster (shingles) disseminated

Dinulos JGH. Warts, herpes simplex, and other viral infections. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 12.

Whitley RJ. Chickenpox and herpes zoster (varicella-zoster virus). In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 136.

Updated by: Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Associate Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Associate in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Clinical Overview of Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Cause

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is caused by reactivation of varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes varicella (chickenpox).

Primary infection with VZV causes varicella. After a person has varicella, the virus remains latent in the dorsal root ganglia. VZV can reactivate later in a person’s life and cause herpes zoster, a painful maculopapular and then vesicular rash.

Clinical Features

People with herpes zoster most commonly have a rash in one or two adjacent dermatomes. The rash most commonly appears on the trunk along a thoracic dermatome or on the face and it usually does not cross the body’s midline.

The rash is usually painful, itchy, or tingly. A person can experience the following symptoms several days before the rash appears:

• Headache
• Photophobia (sensitivity to bright light)
• Malaise

The rash develops into clusters of vesicles. New vesicles continue to form over 3 to 5 days, and the rash progressively dries and scabs over. The rash usually heals in 2 to 4 weeks. Permanent skin discoloration and scarring can occur.

Complications

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)

PHN is the most common complication of herpes zoster. PHN is pain that persists in the area where the rash once was located and continues more than 90 days after rash onset. PHN can last for months or even years.

A person’s risk of having PHN after herpes zoster increases with age. Older adults are more likely to have longer lasting, more severe pain. Approximately 10% to 18% of people with herpes zoster will have PHN. PHN is rare in people younger than 40 years old. The likelihood of PHN is also higher in people who experience more pain with the rash or have a large rash.

Herpes zoster ophthalmicus

Herpes zoster that affects the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve is called herpes zoster ophthalmicus. This can result in acute or chronic ocular sequelae, including vision loss.

Disseminated zoster

Disseminated zoster can include generalized skin eruptions where the lesions occur outside of the primary or adjacent dermatomes. It can be difficult to distinguish from varicella. Visceral involvement of the central nervous system (meningoencephalitis), lungs (pneumonitis), and liver (hepatitis) can also occur. Disseminated zoster generally occurs in people with compromised or suppressed immune systems.

People with compromised or suppressed immune systems are more likely to have a severe, long-lasting rash and experience more severe complications from herpes zoster.

Vaccination

Recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) is the recommended vaccine to prevent shingles and related complications. For information about vaccination recommendations see Shingles Vaccination.

Transmission

People with active herpes zoster lesions can spread VZV , which causes varicella in people who never had varicella or never received varicella vaccine. Once varicella resolves, these people would be at risk for herpes zoster.

Active herpes zoster lesions are infectious through direct contact with vesicular fluid or through breathing in virus particles from the blisters until they dry and scab over. People with active herpes zoster lesions should cover their lesions and avoid contact with susceptible people in their household and in occupational settings until their lesions are dry and scabbed.

Also see Managing People at High Risk for Severe Varicella and Preventing VZV Transmission from Herpes Zoster in Healthcare Settings

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Epidemiology

Risk Factors

Anyone who had varicella can develop herpes zoster. Approximately 99.5% of people born before 1980 in the United States were infected with wild-type VZV. Children who receive varicella vaccine have a lower risk of herpes zoster compared with children who were infected with wild-type VZV.

Approximately 1 in 3 people in the United States will develop herpes zoster during their lifetime. Most people have only one episode; however, herpes zoster can recur.

A person’s risk for herpes zoster and related complications sharply increases after 50 years of age. The reasons why VZV reactivates and causes herpes zoster are not well understood. However, a person’s risk for herpes zoster increases as their VZV-specific cell-mediated immunity declines. This decline in immunity can result from increasing age and medical conditions or medications that suppress a person’s immune system. People with the following conditions that compromise or suppress their immune system have an increased risk for herpes zoster:

• Bone marrow or solid organ (renal, cardiac, liver, and lung) transplant recipients
• Cancer, especially leukemia and lymphoma
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Taking immunosuppressive medications, including steroids, such as for treatment of autoimmune diseases and other immune system deficiencies

Other potential risk factors for herpes zoster have been identified, but the findings are either inconsistent or unexplained. For example:

• More women than men develop herpes zoster.
• Herpes zoster is less common in Blacks than in Whites.

Disease Rates

An estimated one million cases of herpes zoster occur annually in the United States.

• The incidence of herpes zoster varies by age and is approximately 2–9 cases per 1,000 US population annually.

The precise incidence of recurrence is not known.

Complications

• Approximately 10% to 18% of people with herpes zoster will have PHN.
• Approximately 1% to 4% of people with herpes zoster are hospitalized for complications.
• Older adults and people with compromised or suppressed immune systems are more likely to be hospitalized. About 30% of people hospitalized with herpes zoster have compromised or suppressed immune systems.

Deaths

One study estimated 96 deaths occur each year where herpes zoster was the underlying cause (0.28 to 0.69 per 1 million population). Almost all the deaths occurred in older adults or those with compromised or suppressed immune systems.

Trends

Herpes zoster rates among adults in the United States gradually increased over a long period of time. We do not know the reason for this increase. However, the rates across age groups have recently plateaued or declined.

CDC studies have found that herpes zoster rates started increasing before varicella vaccine was introduced in the U. S. and did not accelerate after the routine varicella vaccination program started.

Herpes Zoster in People Who Received Varicella Vaccine

Varicella vaccines contain live attenuated VZV, which results in latent infection. Although herpes zoster has always been uncommon among children, the rate of herpes zoster in U.S. children has declined since the routine varicella vaccination program started in 1996.

• Children (healthy and immunocompromised) vaccinated against varicella have lower rates of herpes zoster compared to children who had natural infection with varicella.
  • Vaccinated children are less likely to become infected with wild-type VZV.
  • The risk of reactivation of vaccine-strain VZV in children is lower compared with reactivation of wild-type VZV.
• Few older adults have received the varicella vaccine since it was licensed in 1995. There is very little information on the risk of herpes zoster in people who got varicella vaccine as adults.

CDC continues to monitor the impacts of the U.S. varicella and herpes zoster vaccination programs among adults and children.

References

1. CDC. Use of Recombinant Zoster Vaccine in Immunocompromised Adults Aged ≥19 Years: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2022;71(3):80-84.
2. Leung et al. The Impact of Universal Varicella Vaccination on Herpes Zoster Incidence in the United States: Comparison of Birth Cohorts Preceding and Following Varicella Vaccination Program Launch. Journal of Infection Diseases. 2022.
3. Harpaz and Leung. The Epidemiology of Herpes Zoster in the United States During the Era of Varicella and Herpes Zoster Vaccines: Changing Patterns Among Older Adults. Clin Infect Dis.2019;69(2):341-344.
4. CDC. Prevention of herpes zoster: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Recommendations for use of Herpes Zoster Vaccines. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2018;67(03):103-108.
5. Thomas SL, Hall AJ. What does epidemiology tell us about risk factors for herpes zoster? Lancet Infect Dis. 2004;4(1):26-33.
6. Tseng HF, Smith N, Harpaz R, et al. Herpes zoster vaccine in older adults and the risk of subsequent herpes zoster disease. JAMA. 2011;305(2):160-6.
7. Mahamud A, Marin M, Nickell SP, et al. Herpes zoster-related deaths in the United States: validity of death certificates and mortality rates, 1979-2007. Clin Infect Dis.2012;55(7):960-6.
8. Leung J, Harpaz R, Molinari NA, et al. Herpes zoster incidence among insured persons in the United States, 1993-2006: evaluation of impact of varicella vaccination. Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2011;52(3):332-340.
9. Yih W, Brooks D, Lett S, et al. The Incidence of varicella and herpes zoster in Massachusetts as measured by the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) during a period of increasing varicella vaccine coverage. BMC Public Health. 2005;5(68).
10. Jumaan AO, Yu O, Jackson LA, et al. Incidence of herpes zoster, before and after varicella vaccination-associated decreases in the incidence of varicella. Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2005;191:2002-7.
11. Hales CM, Harpaz R, Joesoef MR, Bialek SR. Examination of links between herpes zoster incidence and childhood varicella vaccination. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2013;159(11):739-45.
12. Russell ML, Dover DC, Simmonds KA, Svenson LW. Shingles in Alberta: before and after publicly funded varicella vaccination. Vaccine. 2014;32(47):6319-24.
13. Weinmann S, Chun C, Schmid DS, et al. Incidence and clinical characteristics of herpes zoster among children in the varicella vaccine era, 2005–2009. Journal of Infection Diseases. 2013;208(11):1859-68.
14. Hardy I, Gershon AA, Steinberg SP, LaRussa P. The incidence of zoster after immunization with live attenuated varicella vaccine. A study in children with leukemia. Varicella Vaccine Collaborative Study Group. N Engl J Med. 1991;325(22):1545-50.

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Treatment of herpes zoster: effective methods and recommendations

Contents

• 1 Herpes zoster: causes, symptoms and effective treatments
  • 1.1 Treatment of herpes zoster: important information for everyone
    • 1.1.1 Systemic antiviral therapy
    • 1.1.2 Topical antiviral creams
    • 1.1.3 Analgesics
  • 1.2 Shingles: what is it?
  • 1.3 Shingles symptoms
  • 1.4 How is shingles diagnosed?
  • 1.5 Treatments for herpes zoster
  • 1.6 Drugs for the treatment of herpes zoster
  • 1.7 Complementary treatments for herpes zoster
  • 1.8 Speeding up the healing process
  • 1.9 Obstacles in the treatment of herpes zoster: what habits can interfere
  • 1.10 Protection against reinfection shingles
  • 1.11 Who is at risk of getting shingles?
  • 1. 12 The importance of seeking medical attention if you suspect shingles
  • 1.13 Related videos:
  • 1.14 Q&A:
    • • 1.14.0.1 What is shingles?
      • 1.14.0.2 How is shingles transmitted?
      • 1.14.0.3 What symptoms accompany shingles?
      • 1.14.0.4 How to treat shingles at home?
      • 1.14.0.5 When should I see a doctor for shingles?
      • 1.14.0.6 Are there complications from shingles?

Find out what treatments are available for shingles and what medications can help manage the condition. Read the article and get useful tips from experts.

Shingles is a fairly common disease that makes people uncomfortable and makes them less willing to communicate with others. The disease is transmitted by infected humans and animals through direct contact or through clothing, towels, dishes, etc.

Herpes zoster is characterized by the formation of blisters on the skin, which later turn into crusts and cause itching, redness and swollen lymph nodes. But it is not all that bad! Shingles is easily treated if diagnosed early.

In this article, we’ll look at effective treatments for herpes zoster and give you some helpful tips to help you get over this nasty disease faster and easier.

Treatment of herpes zoster: important information for everyone

Shingles is a disease caused by the Varicella-zoster virus. This virus is also the cause of chickenpox. Shingles is characterized by the appearance of a painful rash along the nerves on the skin, accompanied by sharp pain and burning.

Effective treatment of herpes zoster requires the use of systemic and topical antiviral drugs, as well as medications that can help manage pain and burning. Treatment is painful and may take several weeks.

Systemic antiviral therapy

Systemic antiviral medicine includes medicines that target the virus that causes shingles. They are usually accepted within 7-10 days. One of the most popular drugs is acyclovir.

Topical antiviral creams

Topical antiviral creams are used to reduce rashes and symptoms associated with pain and burning. One of the most effective creams is acyclovir cream.

Analgesics

Analgesics are used to relieve pain and relax muscles. With inflammation of herpes zoster, one of the effective analgesics is ibuprofen. However, you must first consult with your doctor.

In general, treatment for shingles should be directed by a doctor who will monitor the progress of the disease and decide which medications and therapies will usually deal with the problem.

Shingles: what is it?

Shingles is a skin disease caused by a fungus that appears as stripes or spots on the body. It is also known as “Herpes zoster” or “lumbar versicolor”. The disease most often manifests itself in people over 50 years of age with a weakened immune system.

Shingles is quite common and can cause a variety of symptoms such as burning, itching, skin redness, blistering and cracking. The disease can be painful and cause severe discomfort.

• How does infection occur?
  The fungus that causes shingles can be transmitted through skin contact and airborne droplets. Infection can occur in a person who has not previously had a chickenpox infection, since herpes zoster is preceded by a disease – chickenpox.
• What are the risk factors?
  Frequent stress, individual immunity, the presence of HPV, infections with immunodeficiency viruses, and diabetes can become factors in the occurrence of herpes zoster.

Symptoms of herpes zoster

Herpes zoster is a disease that is accompanied by a characteristic skin rash that is in the form of a strip or belt along the skin of the body. The most striking symptom of shingles is the appearance of an irritated skin rash that travels along the nerve fibers of the body.

After a while the rash becomes streaks or belts along the nerves of the body. If the rash runs along the surface of the back, they will be located along the spine. If shingles affects the chest area, the rash will be located on the chest. The rash can be only on one side of the body or located in the middle of the body. Each case is individual.

If you notice these symptoms on your body, it is recommended to see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How is shingles diagnosed?

Shingles can be diagnosed in several ways. Usually, a dermatologist will perform a visual examination of the patient to determine if their skin has the characteristic signs of this disease, such as vesicles and spots.

Some doctors may also ask the patient for additional health information. These may be tests for other diseases, such as diabetes or immune deficiencies, or testing for allergies.

In any case, if you suspect shingles or another skin disease, it is important to consult a specialist and undergo all the necessary studies for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

Treatments for herpes zoster

Herpes zoster is a disease caused by the herpes virus that causes a characteristic skin rash. Treatment for shingles is aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing complications.

The most effective treatment for herpes zoster is the use of antiviral drugs. They help to reduce the duration of the disease, reduce pain and prevent the development of complications.

An important role in the treatment of herpes zoster is the observance of the rules of personal hygiene and access to a doctor on time. It is necessary to wear clothing made from natural fabrics and avoid contact with other people so as not to infect them. It is also important to monitor your general health indicators to prevent complications from developing.

1. Using antivirals
2. Maintaining good personal hygiene
3. Wearing clothes made from natural fabrics
4. Avoiding contact with other people
5. Keep track of your general health

If you start treatment for shingles on time and follow all the doctor’s recommendations, then the chances of a full recovery are high.

Herpes zoster drugs

Herpes zoster can be treated with different drugs, depending on the severity of the disease. In the initial stages, antihistamines such as ketotifen or diphenhydramine are often used to help relieve itching and reduce inflammation.

Also, in some cases, systemic treatment may be prescribed, which involves taking antibiotic tablets or antifungals. This usually occurs in cases where the infection has associated with another pathology or disease.

• Antihistamines
• Antifungal ointments
• Systemic treatment

All these drugs can be used only after consulting a doctor and on his recommendation. You should not self-medicate, as this can lead to an aggravation of the disease or the appearance of unwanted side effects.

Additional treatments for herpes zoster

Treatment for herpes zoster includes not only the use of drugs, but also additional procedures that speed up the healing of skin rashes and reduce itching and redness of the skin.

• Phototherapy: This is a procedure in which the skin is irradiated with ultraviolet light of a special wavelength. It helps reduce itching and reduce the number and size of rashes.
• Application of cold compresses: This may be a regular cold compress or a washcloth saturated with cold water. Such procedures reduce itching and redness of the skin and promote healing of rashes.
• Ointments and gels: Some ointments and gels that contain antibiotic, antifungal, or antiviral ingredients can speed up the healing of skin rashes and reduce itching and redness of the skin.

Additional procedures in the treatment of herpes zoster must be agreed with the attending physician and carried out only under his supervision.

Accelerating the healing process

Shingles is a disease that can not only cause discomfort, but also worsen the quality of life. Therefore, accelerating the recovery process becomes an important task for everyone who is faced with this problem.

The first step to speed up the recovery process is to get qualified medical care. Zhosha versicolor (shingles) can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on its severity and course. But besides this, there are other ways that will help speed up the healing process.

• Hygiene measures . The recovery of the disease directly depends on the state of the immune system, therefore, in order to speed up the recovery process, it is necessary to avoid habits that can cause a relapse of the disease. Shingles is contagious, so you need to practice good hygiene and avoid contact with people so as not to infect them.
• Vitaminization and proper nutrition . Shingles can be caused by a lack of vitamins and minerals, so to speed up the healing process, you need to eat food rich in vitamins and minerals. In addition, it is recommended to exclude spicy, salty, fatty and smoked dishes from the diet.
• Daily routine . To speed up the healing process, it is necessary to observe the daily routine and sufficient rest. Good sleep helps to increase immunity, which in turn will allow you to quickly defeat the disease.

In general, speeding up the healing process for shingles is more dependent on how quickly the patient sees a doctor and starts treatment. But compliance with hygiene measures, proper nutrition and daily routine will help speed up the recovery process and prevent recurrences of the disease in the future.

Obstacles in the treatment of herpes zoster: what habits can interfere

Lack of hygiene. It is not necessary to give up showering and washing during illness, on the contrary, this habit is an important condition for recovery. It is necessary to disinfect daily clothes where the rash was previously present, use only your own towel and separate dishes. Uncleaned and undisinfected clothing and furniture can remain contaminated for quite a long time and cause reinfection, making treatment difficult.

Group sports. If you have shingles, it is not recommended to visit places with large crowds of people where group training takes place. Under these conditions, the patient not only increases the likelihood of transmitting the infection to other people, but also threatens his own recovery, because intense physical activity can cause a general increase in the disease and weaken the immune system.

Autosymptomatic disease. Do not get carried away and take self-medication without consulting a doctor. Nowadays, there are many folk remedies recommended by friends or found on the Internet. In most cases, such methods are irrational and increase the risks of unforeseen consequences, can complicate the situation and complicate the course of the disease.

Disturbance of the peace. Work, the wheel of worries, as well as excessive mental activity can adversely affect health and impair the healing process. Learn about periods of rest and stress reduction and try not to do unnecessary things, keep a sleep and rest regimen.

• Conclusion: Compliance with such rules as personal hygiene, avoiding physical activity and psycho-emotional stress, obtaining qualified medical care are the main factors for successful treatment of herpes zoster.

Protection against re-infection with shingles

You can get a shingles infection at any time, especially if your body has already been infected once. To prevent re-infection, experts recommend following simple but effective measures.

• Avoid contact with sick people who have visible skin symptoms. If you find a skin rash on your body, avoid close contact with other people until you see a doctor.
• Maintain personal hygiene – wash your hands regularly with soap and water, do not share rooms or bedding with other people.
• Do not share personal items such as towels or clothing with other people. Try to clean your home to prevent the spread of germs that can cause shingles to re-infect.

In general, clothing and personal items may remain contaminated for up to a week after stopping treatment, so be careful to prevent reinfection. Most people who have had lichen once are immune to the disease, but repeated infections are still possible.

Who is at risk of getting shingles?

Shingles is an infectious disease caused by the Varicella zoster virus. Although anyone can get the disease, certain populations are at particular risk of becoming infected:

• People who have not had chickenpox : If a person has not had chickenpox, they are not immune to Varicella zoster and can get shingles deprive.
• Elderly and people with weakened immune systems : These people are more susceptible to more severe forms of herpes zoster and may experience longer recovery times.
• Women during pregnancy : contracting herpes zoster in the early stages of pregnancy can cause various problems for the fetus, so women should avoid contact with infected people.
• People living or working in closed communities : Infection may spread more rapidly when people live or work in close contact with each other.

Although these populations are at higher risk of infection, anyone can get shingles. Therefore, it is necessary to take precautions and monitor the condition of your skin to avoid infection.

The importance of seeking medical attention if you suspect shingles

Shingles is a skin disease caused by one of six types of the herpes virus. Symptoms include nodules and vesicles on the skin along the nerve trunk, which are usually intensely itchy or painful. In most cases, shingles is treated at home, but if symptoms become more severe or if these symptoms occur in people who are immunosuppressed, medical attention should be sought.

If you suspect you have Shingles, contact your doctor. Your doctor can give you treatment advice and, if necessary, prescribe antiviral medications. If you suffer from pain or unbearable itching, your doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory or pain medications.

It is also important to tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or if you are taking any medications, as this may affect your treatment for Shingles.

If you notice symptoms of herpes zoster in children or the elderly, you should consult a doctor, as they may have more severe symptoms or complications.

In general, if you suspect you have herpes zoster, seek medical attention to get a proper diagnosis and effective treatment.

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Q&A:

What is shingles?

Herpes zoster is a fungal skin disease that appears as spots of various shapes and colors. It got its name due to the fact that the spots are located around the body, as if forming a belt. This disease usually does not cause serious complications, but its symptoms can cause discomfort and inconvenience.

How is shingles transmitted?

Herpes zoster is transmitted by contact, skin or household items. It can be spread from person to person through close physical contact, as well as through objects that can be contaminated with the fungus, such as clothing, towels, bedding, etc. However, in order to become infected, you must have a tendency to the disease and a weakened immune system.

What symptoms accompany shingles?

The main symptom of herpes zoster is spots on the skin, which are located in a circle around the body. The spots are usually reddish or pink in color, but may be brighter. Patients with spots may have itching and redness of the skin. In some cases, especially if the disease progresses, blisters and blisters may form on the skin.

How to treat shingles at home?

Home treatment for herpes zoster may include the use of medicinal ointments and creams such as antimycotics and anti-inflammatories. At the same time, it is very important to monitor hygiene and avoid contact with possible sources of infection. Additionally, you can use some folk remedies, such as tea tree oil or aloe vera. It is also necessary to monitor the state of your immune system and, if necessary, take appropriate measures to strengthen it.

When should I see a doctor for shingles?

Usually, if you have signs of shingles, the first thing to do is to consult a medical professional. A doctor can diagnose the disease by confirming the presence of a fungus on the skin and prescribe the appropriate treatment. In some cases, if the disease progresses or the symptoms become more intense, more serious treatment may be required, for example, with systemic antimycotic drugs.

Can there be complications in shingles?

Shingles usually does not cause serious complications and in most cases resolves without sequelae. However, in some rare cases, especially if the disease is advanced or the patient has a weakened immune system, complications such as skin inflammation, infection of the vesicles, and even shock may occur. In such cases, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Symptoms and treatment of herpes zoster

Our center uses the latest treatment for herpes zoster, developed and approved in the USA in 2014! Made in USA products!

All people of retirement age are at risk of this extremely unpleasant disease, which causes unbearable neuralgic pain. How to protect yourself from shingles? Is it possible to effectively prevent this disease? And what if you need to treat shingles? Let’s start in order. What is shingles or herpes? This is a viral relapsing disease. The reason is the Varicella Zoster virus. He is herpes type III. Hiding for a while in the nerve nodes, this virus manifests itself in the form of rashes in the thoracic spine, which are accompanied by severe pain in the innervation zone. Infection occurs in childhood. Almost all people are infected with this type of virus. After the first incident – chickenpox, which occurs most often in a mild form, is treated on an outpatient basis and does not cause complications, a relapse may occur many years later. This manifestation of herpes type 3 is called shingles. You need to know the symptoms and treatment of the disease, as it can affect everyone for the simple reason that 90% of the population of the entire Earth are carriers of this virus.

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Symptoms of herpes zoster : In places of innervation (where the nerve endings are affected by the virus) blisters appear. Their occurrence is preceded by a prodromal period, when itching begins at the sites of future rashes, skin tension, redness, and sometimes swelling are felt. Often there is severe pain. After some time, usually 2-3 days, the bubbles themselves appear with a clear liquid. Then the liquid becomes cloudy, so pus appears there. At the next stage of the disease, the bubbles burst, the liquid flows out, and crusts form in place of the bubbles, which dry out and fall off. In the chronic course of the disease, new vesicles appear in place of old vesicles, the process is delayed, erosion occurs on the skin, which in turn leads to the formation of ulcers. The chronic form of herpes zoster affects people with immunodeficiency or those whose immunity has been sharply reduced due to the use of drugs that suppress the immune system.

Herpes zoster treatment . At home, even with a mild form of the disease, it is incredibly difficult to cope on your own. Such attempts can lead to complications in the form of skin infections, scarring of the skin, hepatitis, pneumonia and, of course, intense neuralgic pain. It should be noted that the pain of neuralgia can occur not only in places where the vesicles erupt. A common manifestation of herpes zoster in adults, the treatment of which requires immediate medical attention, is the defeat of the trigeminal nerve. Without timely complex therapy, serious eye damage, encephalitis, meningitis, brain damage, and, as a result, disability are possible. So how is herpes zoster treated? Photos that show places affected by VVZ are extremely impartial. That is why you should immediately contact a dermatologist at the first suspicion of shingles. Therapy involves the appointment of an antiviral drug. Methods and regimens for the treatment of herpes zoster are selected by the doctor individually. This is usually a combination of oral antiviral drugs and ointments, which are applied 5-7 times a day to skin rashes until they are completely healed.

Those who once suffered this disease, as well as those who are at risk, are very interested in the question: is it possible to quickly treat herpes zoster? In general, such a practice exists, but in our country it is practiced only in one medical center located in Moscow. In other medical institutions, the treatment of shingles involves drugs that do not give a long-term positive effect, bring only temporary relief. The symptoms, as well as the treatment of shingles, can be very varied. Just think, because this disease has been known since ancient times, so much has been tried since then. However, a modern person must understand that the alternative treatment of herpes zoster is extremely ineffective. Moreover, it is simply dangerous because of the high likelihood of developing complications, the most harmless of which is pneumonia. However, well-known drugs, produced as an ointment or tablets, shingles are treated with great difficulty. Everyone who is faced with such an unpleasant and painful illness as type 3 herpes wants to know if there is really a high-quality and reliable remedy to get rid of the disease forever?

Treatment of herpes zoster on the body according to the latest technique using only licensed and tested Austrian preparations is carried out in our medical center. This is the only medical institution that practices the treatment of herpes zoster in humans, according to foreign quality criteria and with a guaranteed result. We were told that herpes is incurable, that it is a sentence for life. However, in the United States, thanks to vaccinations against herpes zoster, significantly fewer people require treatment than in our country. In our country, this technique is most likely not used for two reasons: low awareness of the population, lack of basic knowledge about the herpes virus; financial interest of pharmaceutical companies in the large turnover of expensive antiviral drugs. As a result, ordinary people suffer. It is especially alarming for pensioners, in whom herpes occurs with serious complications and neuralgic pain. Treatment of shingles in the elderly is often associated with an appeal to a neurologist, as the pain does not allow you to live in peace. It should be noted that simple anesthetics do not help with postherpetic pain.

Treatment of pain after herpes zoster – becomes the first priority of the neurologist. These pains are so intense that the person who endures them literally becomes depressed and despairs of getting relief.