Definition of Shingles
Shingles is the remanifestation of the varicella-zoster virus, otherwise known as "chickenpox." This virus apparently lies dormant after someone has childhood chickenpox, then it can attack the central nervous system, causing burning, tingling, numbness, and itching. Blisters, present in chickenpox, are also present in shingles, often in a "band-like" development around the torso. Just like with many other neurological illnesses, shingles can cause pain. Older adults are at a higher risk for developing shingles.
Treatment of Shingles
Shingles can last several weeks, and pain can persist after the blisters disappear. Severity and duration can be minimized by treatment with anti-viral drugs such as valcyclovir, famcyclovir, or acyclovir. Residual neuralgia, or neurological pain, can be treated with anticonvulsants, antidepressants, or steroids.
There is currently a shingles vaccine available. It is called Zostavax, and it has been proven to prevent shingles outbreaks about 50% of the time. Older adults (60 +) are encouraged to receive the vaccine. Duration and severity are also reduced when those who get the Zostavax vaccine still develop shingles. For further reference: www.fda.gov.
****For more information, read Shingles Facial Complications and Shingles Support.
***For related neurological information, visit the Neurological ARTICLE INDEX and Blog.
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