Herpes zoster (shingles) is a painful viral illness that manifests as a rash or blisters on the skin. This disease is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is also responsible for chickenpox. Rash symptoms often manifest as a band of redness, itching, and blistering on one part of the body.
Although the symptoms of childhood chickenpox eventually disappear, the varicella-zoster virus is never completely eliminated from the human body. In some instances, the virus reactivates in adulthood.
SYMPTOMS
Signs of shingles’ early stages may include:
Other symptoms that manifest a few days after the onset of the first symptoms include:
DIAGNOSIS
The spread of the rash is a telltale sign of Herpes zoster. A rash caused by shingles often manifests as a band of blisters along one side of the body. Blister fluid or scrapings from the skin might be sent to a lab to confirm a shingles diagnosis.
TREATMENT
Herpes zoster has no cure, although there are medications to manage the symptoms.
Antiviral medications
These medications may alleviate pain and shorten the duration of the symptoms, especially if used within 72 hours after the onset of shingles. They may also aid in the prevention of discomfort that might occur months or years later. Among these drugs are:
Over-the-counter pain relievers
These drugs may be beneficial in alleviating pain and include the following:
These treatments work best if begun quickly after the first signs of the rash develop.
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