It is caused by the same virus as chickenpox – varicella-zoster virus.
If one previously has had chickenpox the virus lays dormant (at bay) in our body and our immune system fights it, however it can be triggered and come back as shingles.
The infection travels down one nerves to the skin , they usually appear on side of the body in certain areas of the body.
People cannot catch shingles from someone with chickenpox. But they can catch chickenpox from someone with shingles if they have not had chickenpox before.
How contagious is it?
Shingles is only contagious to people who have never had chickenpox or any shigella virus.
It is spread by direct skin-to-skin contact with the blister fluid.
When the blisters have formed scabs, you are no longer contagious.
This usually takes7–10 days after the rash appears, though it can sometimes take up to 2–4 weeks for complete healing.
If one has the Huthinson’s sign, a blistering rash from the tip of the nose, please see your Medical doctor on the same day, if not go to hospital as it may spread to the eye and/or ear and lead to severe complications. Any blistering rash around eye and/or ear seek immediate medical attention
Treatment
Prompt antiviral therapy within 72 hours of symptom onset can significantly reduce the severity and duration of the illness, as well as prevent long-term complications. However it can be difficult to diagnose initially and be mistaken for other skin condition symptoms. It’s important to let the healthcare professional to know if one has any medical condition or medication (current and/or history).
Measure antibodies (IgM and IgG) against the varicella-zoster virus.
Cause
Virus: Varicella-zoster virus (this virus stays dormant, in our bodies, but then becomes ‘active’ for reasons not fully understood, it tends to reactivate in areas where there lots of nerves in one area)
Direct contact to a person with shingles and/or via the respiratory route
If one has the Huthinson’s sign, a blistering rash from the tip of the nose, please see your Medical doctor on the same day, if not go to hospital as it may spread to the eye and lead to severe complications.
Infection during the first 28 weeks can result in a rare but serious condition called congenital varicella syndrome, which may cause shortened limbs, vision problems (such as cataracts), brain damage and scarring.
Infection during weeks 28 to 37 can mean your baby is at risk of developing shingles at some point after they’re born.
Infection a week before to a week after birth can mean your baby is a risk of a severe and potentially life-threatening chickenpox infection.
Viral skin infections (eczema herpeticum, caused by herpes virus):
Areas of painful eczema that quickly get worse
Groups of fluid-filled blisters that break open and leave small, shallow open sores on the skin
High temperature and generally feeling unwell
General tips
Do no treat this condition with steroidal cream and/or moisturisers as it may make the condition worst.
One can use anti-histamines (if suitable), chicken pox gels and lotions (if suitable) and/or calamine lotion (if suitable) to calm the skin down if its it itchy and/or sore.
If it appears infected and/or is getting worst, your medical doctor will decide if antibiotics and/or viral medication is required.
Starting antiviral treatment within 72 hours of rash onset can help reduce symptom severity and complications.
H.I.V test
A H.I.V test should be offered if one has an ongoing condition.
This condition may show similar symptoms to:
Scabies (similar appearance, but with no pain, fever and tends not to occur on face)
Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice
Detailed Information
Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Shingles in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).
The Pharmaceutical Journal covers analysis, features, opinion, learning and careers articles, providing insight and knowledge about drugs, pharmacy practice, medicines use and healthcare policy in the context of the pharmacy profession and pharmaceutical science.
Healthy changes start with little changes. Whether you want to lose weight, drink less alcohol, get active or quit smoking, you have access to lots of free tools and support through Better Health. You can also find simple ways to lift your mood with Every Mind Matters.
There has never been a better time to kickstart your health. Let’s do this!
