Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a virus related to the varicella zoster virus. This virus is highly characterized by a blister-like rash. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 million people suffer from shingles every year. Though the infection is not fatal, it is painful.
Causes
Herpes zoster is caused by a virus known as varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. In most cases, the virus becomes dormant and on reactivation leads to cold sores or herpes. The blister-like rashes usually appear on the skin over the path of the affected nerves with reddish surroundings. Though the reason is ambiguous, it is considered that stress side effects of medicines, age related and suppressed immune system.
Symptoms
The immediate symptom that connects the blisters or rashes to herpes zoster is one-sided pain and burning sensation. Most people suffering from herpes zoster get blisters on the skin that dry gradually and form a thick crust. Theses are usually seen on the chest, lumbar region, genitals, thighs, scalp and face. Some other common symptoms include chills, pain in the joints, inflammation of the lymph glands, headache, fever, penile or vaginal discharge, urinary tract infections, back pain, restricted muscle movement and inflammation around the infected portion.
Complications
Generally, herpes zoster clears in about 2 to 3 weeks, and its recurrence is unusual. The area of the shingles infection might have extreme pain or post-herpetic neuralgia condition, which could last anywhere between months to years. Some of the other complications bacterial infections, deafness, blindness and more chances for another herpes zoster attack. If herpes affects the motor nerves, there is a risk of the disease leading to paralysis, or permanent or temporary weakness.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing herpes zoster is done primarily through visual examination of the rash. Generally, doctors use an ophthalmoscope or a slit-lamp microscope if the eye region is affected. Predominantly patterned blisters snaking on the surface of a nerve are visible, but it becomes difficult to diagnose if the rash is absent but pain or burning persist. In such a case, it can be diagnosed by conducting laboratory tests, such as the VZV-specific IgM antibody in blood.
Lifestyle Changes
Changes in the lifestyle can help prevent herpes zoster. A healthy diet rich in lysine, which is present in foods such as nonfat dairy products and yogurt, is recommended. The diet should also contain low levels of arginine, which is found in foods such as chocolates, peanuts and nuts. Intake of vitamins, such as Adenosine monophospate (AMP), reduces the risk of getting herpes zoster. Apart from eating a healthy diet, patients should also be stress-free. Depression and stress can increase the chances of the manifestation of shingles.
