Shingles or herpes zoster is a painful rash that can be quite debilitating for some people.  The rash is a reactivation of the varicella virus or chickenpox which many people acquire in childhood.  Shingles usually occurs with increasing age and in people whose immune system is supressed.  A burning type pain occurs several days before the rash.  People can develop a pain syndrome after shingles, referred to as postherpetic neuralgia, which can last months after the rash disappears.

Yes, the rash is potentially contagious and you should take precaution until the rash crusts over and disappears.

1. When you go see your doctor, the doctor will usually make the diagnosis without doing anything additional tests as the history and appearance of the rash will be very typical.
2. Usually, shingles is treated with acyclovir or an anti-viral medication.
3. Sometimes, the doctor may prescribe oral corticosteroids to help reduce pain.  You might also be offered other types of medication used for “nerve pain”.
4. Usually, the condition resolves without any major complications.  However, some people may develop the postherpetic neuralgia and require continue pain medication long after the rash has disappeared.
5. Zostavax is the shingles vaccine that is offered to people over the age of 60.  This helps to reduce the patient’s chances of getting the shingles by about 50 percent.  It also helps to prevent postherpetic neuralgia in about 65 percent of those who receive the vaccine.  Ask your doctor whether this vaccine is right for you.

Tags: Herpes zoster, Infectious disease, Postherpetic neuralgia, Shingles