Shingles is a disease caused by a virus. It is the same virus as chickenpox. After recovery from chickenpox, the child keeps the virus. The virus has settled permanently in nerve ganglia, but it is neutralized by the immune system. In adulthood, following a decrease in immune system, sometimes the virus reactivates and goes up to the skin, herpes zoster.
Shingles is a painful infection that typically occurs only once in a person. The skin becomes red and a rash forms itself localy. The lesions are usually found on the chest. Followed by intense itching and burning sensation. Scabs may form. The pain may persist for months after healing of lesions.
There is risk of infection for people who have not had chickenpox. Physical contact should be avoided.
The treatment is to clean the skin with mild soap and then apply antiseptic (with no alcohol) in aqueous solution to prevent superinfection of lesions. Pain medications are taken when the pain is intense. Antiviral treatment orally or intravenously may be necessary.
To prevent the disease, it is best to keep the immune system healthy by eating a healthy diet, physical activity and adequate rest.
See the doctor at the first symptoms. Antiviral treatment is more effective when initiated early in the disease.
18 avril 2010
| The text above is for information purposes only. Only a doctor can diagnose a disease. No treatment (medication or scheme) should be undertaken without consulting a health professional. |