Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissue near the spinal cord and brain. In some individuals, the virus can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles.
The main symptom of shingles is a painful rash that typically appears as a band or strip of blisters on one side of the body, usually on the torso, although it can also occur on the face or other parts of the body. The rash follows the path of the affected nerve, and it is often accompanied by tingling, itching, or a burning sensation.
Other common symptoms of shingles include fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light. The rash usually lasts for 2 to 4 weeks and gradually heals, with the blisters scabbing over and eventually falling off. However, in some cases, individuals may experience long-lasting nerve pain, a condition called postherpetic neuralgia.
Shingles is more common in older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems, although it can occur at any age. The risk factors for developing shingles include advancing age, having had chickenpox before the age of 1, weakened immune system due to certain medical conditions or medications, and high levels of stress.
The varicella-zoster virus is contagious, but it does not spread through the air like the common cold or flu. Instead, the virus can be transmitted through direct contact with the fluid from the shingles blisters. If a person who has never had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine comes into contact with the shingles rash, they may develop chickenpox, not shingles.
To reduce the risk of complications and manage the symptoms of shingles, antiviral medications may be prescribed by a healthcare professional. Vaccination is also available as a preventive measure against shingles. The shingles vaccine, called Zostavax or Shingrix, can help reduce the risk of developing shingles and its associated complications.
If you suspect you have shingles or have been exposed to someone with shingles, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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The Shingle Solution™ By Julissa Clay This eBook includes a program to treat the problem of shingle naturally. The author of this eBook, Julissa Clay, a practitioner in natural health, has killed the shingles causing virus completely to overcome the problem of PHN or Postherpetic neuralgia, one of the common complications caused by shingles.