Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After an individual has recovered from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the body, specifically in the nerve root ganglia. Years later, the virus can reactivate, particularly when the immune system is weakened, such as with aging, stress, or immunocompromising conditions. This reactivation leads to shingles, which is characterized by a painful, blistering skin rash that typically appears on one side of the body, often in the form of a stripe.

The rash associated with shingles usually begins as small, red spots that develop into itchy blisters filled with fluid. The rash commonly wraps around one side of the torso or may appear on the face or around the eye. Accompanying symptoms can include fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light. After the blisters break, they form scabs that can take several weeks to heal. The most common complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia, where severe nerve pain can persist even after the rash has cleared. Vaccination is available to help prevent shingles or reduce the severity of its symptoms.