Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox during childhood. After experiencing chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerves of the body. Later, when the immune system is weakened or under stress, the virus can reactivate, leading to shingles.
Shingles is typically characterized by painful blisters that appear on one side of the body, often around the waist or face. These blisters commonly come with redness, burning, and itching of the skin. Shingles can also be associated with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, weakness, and a general feeling of illness.
Shingles often requires treatment. Treatment may involve antiviral medications and pain relievers to alleviate symptoms and control the infection. Antiviral medications can shorten the duration and reduce the severity of the illness, while pain relievers can alleviate discomfort. Additionally, there is a shingles vaccine available, which can reduce the risk of developing shingles in individuals who have had chickenpox.
The treatment of shingles is typically managed by a doctor, and the treatment process may vary depending on the patient’s symptoms and health condition. Doctors also guide patients to prevent shingles complications, which may include painful nerve damage such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), eye infections, and neurological issues.
The pain and discomfort caused by shingles can sometimes persist for a long time and negatively affect quality of life. Therefore, it is important to treat shingles, and early initiation of treatment at the onset of symptoms is recommended.
