If you’ve ever had chickenpox, you should pay attention to herpes zoster or shingles, a viral infection that affects one in three people at some point in their life. Although it’s more common in people over 50, it can also affect younger people.
What is herpes zoster or shingles?
Herpes zoster or shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox in children. After suffering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body for years and, in some cases, can reactivate later in life as herpes zoster or shingles.
Symptoms include pain, tingling, or burning in a specific area of the skin, followed by a rash or blisters that develop in the same place. The pain can be intense and last for weeks or months after the blisters disappear. In some cases, herpes zoster or shingles can also cause serious complications, such as loss of vision or hearing.
How is herpes zoster or shingles treated?
Early treatment can help reduce the duration and severity of herpes zoster or shingles symptoms. Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir or valacyclovir, can help reduce the spread of the virus and decrease pain. In addition, painkillers and topical treatments, such as lidocaine creams and patches, can relieve pain.
It’s important to consult a doctor for proper treatment for herpes zoster or shingles, as some people may require additional treatment to prevent complications.
How can herpes zoster or shingles be prevented?
The herpes zoster or shingles vaccine can prevent the disease or, if developed, make the symptoms less severe. The vaccine is recommended for all people over 50, even if they have already had herpes zoster or shingles.
In addition, maintaining a healthy immune system and reducing stress can help prevent herpes zoster or shingles.
If you suspect you may have herpes zoster, it’s important to consult a doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment can help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms and prevent long-term complications.
At MedMeSafe, we offer a test for analysis of monkeypox, herpes, chickenpox, and enterovirus that allows you to know if you’re infected with the varicella-zoster virus. We’re currently offering a special promotion on this test, so don’t hesitate to visit our website and learn more.
https://www.medmesafe.com/tests-for-the-detection-of-human-papillomavirus-hpv
In summary, herpes zoster or shingles is a common viral infection that can be painful and debilitating. If you experience symptoms of herpes zoster or shingles, it’s important to seek medical treatment immediately. Preventive measures, such as vaccination and promoting a healthy lifestyle, can help reduce the risk of contracting the disease.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/es-es/diseases-conditions/shingles/symptoms-causes/syc-20353054
https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/000858.htm
Clément Destoumieux
PRESENT: + 20 years in complex legal and IT projects in France, the UK and Spain Expert in BioExpert exclusive network of experts in the sectors of life science and investment. Startups coordinator of ANIS (Spanish Association of Health Journalists) Lider ehealth in Asociación Española de Start up Active member of ASEBIO (Leading Spanish Biotech Association) PAST: Sociedad Española Informática de la Salud MBA in Ecole Des Mines – Nantes Master Degree in Ipag Business School in Paris