Understanding Herpes ZosterIf you have had chicken pox before, there is a probability that you would develop herpes zoster later in your life. Initial infection with the varicella zoster virus results to chicken pox, which normally affects children and teenagers. Chicken pox, as you probably know, is a one-time occurrence since your body develops an immunity to it after it has healed. However, what most people don't know is that the varicella zoster virus actually remains in certain nerve cells as a dormant and silent threat even after you are completely healed of chicken pox. There is a chance that the virus will activate later in your life, usually when you are past the age of 50, to cause herpes zoster. A number of factors can lead to the 're-activation' of the varicella zoster virus, but most physicians place the blame on a weakened immune system. As you grow older, your immune system also grows weaker and this process is often aggravated by certain ailments such as cancer or HIV-AIDS. Treatment methods used for these ailments such as chemotherapy also leads to momentary weakening of the immune system, which can cause the zoster virus to multiply and infect the nerve fibers of your skin. |
This disease looks very similar to chicken pox, except that the rashes and blisters usually occur in stripes and only appears on one side of the body. The buttocks and the trunk are the most common place where the disease manifests, but is has also been known to occur in other parts of the body such as the arms, neck, and even the face.
Aside from a slight difference in appearance, herpes zoster is also a more painful disease than chicken pox. At first, you would notice the development of a rash on one side of your body along with a feeling of burning, tingling, and extreme sensitivity on that area. These could persist for up to three days, in which fever and headaches are also typical. The rash would soon develop into blisters, which are at first clear before turning yellowish to bloody. These blisters normally heal on their own over a period of one to three weeks. However, it is during this healing period that pain is most excruciating so it would be wise to ask for a prescription of painkillers from your physician. |
Treatment of herpes zoster rarely requires hospitalization, though a number of medications are often prescribed. These medications typically include anti-viral medicines, corticosteroids, pain relievers, and anti-depressants. On top of medications, the most important factor in treating herpes is early diagnosis since the disease is best treated at its early stage so as to prevent complications.
However, just like in any disease, prevention is better than treatment. You can avail of anti-herpes vaccine especially formulated for people aged 60 and above. Anti-chicken pox vaccine is also advisable for younger people so as to prevent the varicella zoster virus from affecting your body in the first place. |
|
|
|
