Herpes zoster shingles is the medical term for the shingles disease. Characterized by a rash of small blisters, this condition can be very tormenting. Besides the rash, people with herpes zoster shingles usually experience pain as well. The entire process, from the sign of the first symptoms to the end of the healing period, normally takes about three to four weeks. People who have herpes zoster shingles may also experience after-affects in the form of pain. These after-affects are called postherpetic neuralgia. There are fortunately treatments for herpes zoster shingles as well as postherpetic neuralgia.

The virus which causes herpes zoster shingles is the varicella-zoster virus. This virus is also responsible for the development of chickenpox. This virus is not to be mistaken for the herpes virus which causes genital herpes. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease. Chickenpox is commonly developed during childhood. Unfortunately the varicella-zoster virus never really leaves the system but rather remains in the individual’s nervous system. Factors such as stress and immune deficiency may cause this virus to raise its ugly head and moves through the individual’s system causing the development of herpes zoster shingles. These shingles cause mostly itching and burning sensations and some people experience intense pain. Herpes zoster shingles is usually found in the form of a band which spans one side of their trunk and then around their waistline. This band is referred to as a dermatome.

Despite the discomfort and pain which herpes zoster shingles causes a person, there is relief through treatment. The other positive side of herpes zoster shingles is it doesn’t last forever. Although it may be unbearable for the individual who is experiencing the symptoms, they can look forward to an end which they ought to see in three to four weeks. For anyone who isn’t educated regarding herpes zoster shingles and is interested in learning about it, there are many sites on the internet which provide detailed information regarding this condition. 

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