What is Herpes Zoster

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Individuals over the age of 50 are mostly susceptible to herpes zoster. There are several signs related to herpes zoster along with pain and a rash. Chickenpox is the result of a virus and if this same virus attacks an individual who has had chickenpox, it will result in herpes zoster. This means that anyone who has had chickenpox or the vaccine are in danger of being infected with this disease. Unfortunately no cure exists but there are many antiviral medications that lessen the duration and intensity of the disease.

Shingles is probably the more commonly known name for herpes zoster. This is the varicella-zoster virus that reinfects an individual. This is the same virus that triggers chickenpox. This seems to show up during different periods of an individual's life.
This is not a contagious infection. Just coming in contact with someone who has the infection will not mean you will be infected. However, the herpes zoster is not a transmitted infection but being in contact with an infected person could mean you develop a case of chickenpox if you have never had the vaccine or the disease.

What are the dangers involved with herpes zoster: Although usually found in individuals that are 50 years of age and older, it can attack at any age if the person had either chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. A weakened immune system makes a person more susceptible the the infection. This happens when an individual has AIDS or HIV infection, is having radiation treatment or chemotherapy, has a lot of stress or has had a stem cell transplant or a kidney transplant.

What are the signs of herpes zoster: The signs will be different. In some individuals, particularly the more mature adults, the signs that develop may be disabling. Others may only suffer from mild symptoms. When it comes to who will be infected with this disease, there is no way to tell. It is a random occurrence affecting some in a mild manner and others with severe symptoms that will end in complications.

The two most frequent afflictions associated with herpes zoster are a rash and pain. The early signs are frequently tingling pain or burning. Some individuals report experiencing numbness both in and under the skin. Headaches, fever that makes a person feel ill, or a sour stomach, or chills are all the first warning signs of herpes zoster.

The pain associated with herpes zoster can be very severe and continual. Although some individuals only have mild pain, those who have herpes zoster sores on their body can experience shooting pains with the gentlest breeze or the slightest touch.