Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that can appear at any time of life, but is more common in adults over the age of 50. It is a
If you’ve heard of this condition and want to know how to identify it, what the risks are and how to treat it, read on.
What is the zone?
The area is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, varicella-zoster. After a person has chickenpox, the virus doesn’t disappear completely – it stays “hidden” in the nerve cells. It may never cause problems again but, in some people, it reactivates years later, manifesting itself in the form of a zit.
Unlike chickenpox, which affects several parts of the body, a zit usually appears in a specific area of the skin (usually following the path of a nerve).
Symptoms of the area
In the first few days, symptoms can be confused with other conditions:
- Localized pain (usually on one side of the body)
- Burning or tingling sensation
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Tiredness and general malaise.
After this initial phase, the characteristic rash appears. It starts with red spots that quickly develop into small blisters filled with fluid. These blisters can be very painful and, in some cases, even the simple touch of clothing on the skin can be uncomfortable.
Over time, the blisters dry out and form scabs, which eventually fall off after two to four weeks.
Here’s how lesions can appear on the skin, from the first signs to the formation of scabs. Warning: Images may be sensitive for some people.
Where do the lesions appear?
The area can appear anywhere on the body, but is most common on the torso, face and around the eyes. It usually only affects one side of the body, following the path of a nerve.
If the infection reaches the eye area (ophthalmic area), it can compromise vision and, in severe cases, lead to blindness.
Is the area contagious?
Yes and no. Anyone who has had chickenpox cannot “catch” it from someone else. However,
What can cause the virus to reactivate?
The virus can remain inactive in the body for decades, but certain conditions can increase the risk of reactivation:
- Older age: the area is more common after the age of 50
- Weakened immune system: people with diseases such as AIDS, cancer or undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy are more vulnerable
- Stress and fatigue: chronic stress can affect the immune system and facilitate the reactivation of the virus
- Surgery or trauma: some medical procedures can contribute to the reappearance of the infection.
Treatment of the area
There is no definitive cure, but there are treatments that help relieve symptoms and speed up recovery. Treatment should begin as soon as possible, ideally within the first three days of the lesions appearing.
It is essential to consult a doctor as soon as the first signs of the disease appear, as treatment is most effective when started within the first 72 hours of the lesions appearing.
How is the diagnosis made?
Diagnosis of the area is mainly based on symptoms and observation of skin lesions. In doubtful cases, laboratory tests can be carried out to detect the presence of the active virus in the body.
Medicines used
- Antivirals (acyclovir, valacyclovir): help reduce the duration of the disease and the intensity of symptoms
- Analgesics and anti-inflammatories: relieve pain and discomfort
- Anesthetic creams or gels (lidocaine): can be applied to the skin to reduce pain
- Cortisone (in some cases): used to reduce inflammation and the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia
- Medications for post-herpetic neuralgia (amitriptyline, gabapentin): used when the pain persists after the lesions have healed
In addition to medical treatment, some measures can help relieve symptoms:
- Wear loose clothing to avoid friction with the skin
- Avoid touching or scratching blisters to prevent infection
- Keep skin clean and dry.
How long does it take for the disease to pass?
In most cases, this viral condition lasts between two and four weeks. The cycle begins with pain and tingling on the skin, followed by the appearance of rashes and fluid-filled vesicles. These eventually dry out and form scabs, which gradually fall off.
Some people may continue to experience persistent pain in the affected area, a condition called post-herpetic neuralgia, which can last for months or even years. Recovery time can vary depending on age, the state of the immune system and how quickly treatment was started.
How to prevent the area?
The best way to prevent shingles is through vaccination. The shingles vaccine doesn’t guarantee total protection, but it significantly reduces the risk of developing the disease and the severity of symptoms. It is recommended for people over 50 and for risk groups.
Currently, the vaccine is not reimbursed by the SNS, which means that the cost is borne by the user. The price is around
Faced with this reality, doctors and patient associations have called for the vaccine to be included in the National Vaccination Program, especially for those at higher risk of complications. If you have any doubts about the vaccine, talk to your family doctor and see if it makes sense for you.
Strategies to prevent reactivation of the virus
- A balanced diet and physical exercise to strengthen the immune system.
- Stress management through meditation, yoga or relaxing activities.
- Adequate rest to avoid extreme fatigue and maintain the body’s defenses.
- Control of chronic diseases such as diabetes or autoimmune problems.
- Avoid contact with active lesions to prevent transmission of the virus.
How to prevent the area?
You should see a doctor as soon as the first signs of the area appear, especially if there is severe pain, fever or general malaise. Early treatment with antivirals can reduce the severity of the disease and prevent complications.
It is essential to get immediate medical attention if:
- Injuries affect the eyes or vision
- The pain is very intense and difficult to control
- There are signs of infection in the blisters, such as pus or excessive redness
- Symptoms persist for more than four weeks.
If you suspect you may have the zone, don’t put off going to the doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference to the progression of the disease.
