Shingles: causes, symptoms and treatment of the painful viral disease

Shingles: causes, symptoms and treatment of the painful viral disease

Shingles: causes, symptoms and treatment of the painful viral disease

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful viral disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has chickenpox, the VZV remains inactive in the nerve roots and can appear as shingles later in life. In this article we will take a closer look at the causes, symptoms and treatment of shingles.

Causes of shingles

Shingles occurs when inactive VZV reactivates in the body. It is not yet known exactly why the virus reactivates in some people and not others. However, it is believed that a weakened immune system plays a role and that stress, trauma or certain medical treatments may promote reactivation.

Shingles symptoms

Shingles usually begins with a burning or tingling pain on one side of the body, followed by a rash. The rash consists of small, fluid-filled blisters that spread along a specific nerve pathway and therefore usually appear in a limited belt or stripe pattern around the back or waist. There may also be pain, itching, or a general feeling of discomfort.

Diagnosis of shingles

A doctor can usually diagnose shingles based on its external appearance and specific symptoms. However, in some cases it may be necessary to take a sample of skin or bladder fluid to detect the presence of VZV.

Treatment of shingles

Treatment for shingles aims to relieve symptoms, prevent the rash from spreading, and reduce complications. These usually include antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, taken orally. These medications can shorten the course of the disease and reduce the intensity of symptoms.

It may also be helpful to take painkillers to relieve the pain associated with shingles. Topical applications, such as antiviral creams or patches, can also be used for treatment. In some cases, the doctor may also prescribe additional medications to treat possible complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia.

Prevention and protection

Because shingles is caused by the same virus as chickenpox, the best method of prevention is to avoid childhood chickenpox infections through vaccination. Unfortunately, if a person has already had chickenpox, they are still at risk of developing shingles later in life.

It is also important to keep the immune system healthy to reduce the risk of shingles. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, enough sleep and managing stress can help keep the immune system strong.

Frequently asked questions

1. Is shingles contagious?
Shingles itself is not directly contagious. However, a person who has not had chickenpox and comes into contact with the shingles blisters can develop chickenpox.

2. What complications can occur with shingles?
A possible complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia, in which the pain continues after the rash has healed. Other complications such as infections or nerve damage can also occur.

3. Can shingles be cured?
In most cases, shingles heals on its own within two to four weeks. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications.

4. Who is particularly at risk of developing shingles?
People over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing shingles.

5. Can you get shingles multiple times?
Yes, although it is rare, it is possible to get shingles multiple times.

Overall, shingles is a painful viral disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Although there is no cure for it, treatment can help relieve symptoms and minimize complications. The best prevention remains avoiding chickenpox through vaccination. If shingles is suspected, it is advisable to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.