Herpes Zoster: Caused by Reactivation of the Chickenpox Virus

Inspa Kyoto – Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. This condition is characterized by painful skin rashes that appear as stripes or clusters of small blisters on one side of the body. This typically occurs in individuals who have previously had chickenpox, especially when their immune system becomes weakened.

What Is Herpes Zoster?

Herpes zoster is an infection that arises from the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which remains dormant in the body after a person recovers from chickenpox. The virus does not completely leave the body but stays inactive in the nervous system. When the immune system weakens, the virus can become active again, leading to herpes zoster.

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Symptoms of Herpes Zoster

The symptoms usually develop gradually and include the following stages:

Pain, burning, or tingling sensations in specific areas of the body.
Red skin rashes that appear a few days after the initial symptoms.
Small fluid-filled blisters, often arranged in a stripe or band-like pattern.
Fever and fatigue, although not everyone experiences these symptoms.
Extreme skin sensitivity, particularly around the rash area.

Causes and Risk Factors

Herpes zoster is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease, including:

Older age, particularly over 50, as the immune system tends to weaken with age.
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, or HIV/AIDS, which compromise immune defenses.
Excessive stress, which can weaken the immune system.
Use of immunosuppressive drugs, such as steroids or chemotherapy.

Treatment and Prevention

Herpes zoster can be treated with various methods, including:

Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir, to speed up recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
Pain relievers, either oral or topical, to alleviate discomfort.
Cold compresses applied to the rash area to reduce inflammation and itching.

To prevent this disease, vaccination is the most effective strategy. Herpes zoster vaccines, such as Shingrix, significantly lower the risk of infection, especially in individuals over 50.

Complications of Herpes Zoster

If not properly treated, it can lead to serious complications, such as:

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a chronic pain that persists long after the rash has healed.
Secondary skin infections, caused by bacterial contamination of broken blisters.
Vision problems, if the rash occurs near the eyes.