Herpes zoster - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. 2. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate years later, causing herpes zoster. 3. The main symptom of herpes zoster is a painful rash that usually appears as a band or strip on one side of the body, often wrapping around the torso. 4. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light. 5. The rash typically progresses through stages, starting as red bumps that turn into fluid-filled blisters before crusting over and eventually healing. 6. Herpes zoster is contagious and can be spread through direct contact with the rash, but it is less contagious than chickenpox. 7. The risk of developing herpes zoster increases with age, as the immune system weakens and the virus is more likely to reactivate. 8. Treatment for herpes zoster usually involves antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as pain relief medications. 9. Complications of herpes zoster can include postherpetic neuralgia, a condition where the pain persists after the rash has healed, as well as vision loss if the rash affects the eye. 10. The best way to prevent herpes zoster is to get vaccinated with the shingles vaccine, which is recommended for adults over the age of 50.