Zona

Zona (Shingles)

A depiction of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes both chickenpox and shingles.

Zona, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection that results in a painful rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissue near the spinal cord and brain. Years later, the virus may reactivate as shingles.

Symptoms

The initial symptoms of shingles may include headache, sensitivity to light, and flu-like symptoms without a fever. The most characteristic symptom is a painful rash that develops on one side of the body or face. The rash forms blisters that typically scab over in 7 to 10 days and clear up within 2 to 4 weeks. Some people may experience pain, itching, or tingling in the area where the rash will develop before the rash appears.

Causes

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. The exact reason for reactivation is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a weakened immune system. Factors that may increase the risk of developing shingles include aging, stress, and certain medical conditions or treatments that suppress the immune system.

Complications

The varicella-zoster virus can cause complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.

One of the most common complications of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a condition where the pain from shingles persists long after the rash has healed. Other complications can include vision loss if shingles affects the eye, neurological problems, and skin infections.

Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent shingles. The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults over the age of 50, even if they have had shingles before. The vaccine can reduce the risk of developing shingles and the severity of symptoms if it does occur.

Treatment

Treatment for shingles includes antiviral medications, which can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness if started early. Pain management is also important and may include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and topical treatments.

Related pages

• Chickenpox
• Varicella-zoster virus
• Postherpetic neuralgia
• Vaccination