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Additional names
This group contains additional names: - Shingles
General
Shingles is an infection caused by the virus Herpes Zoster, the same virus causing chickenpox. After getting chickenpox, the virus stays silent in the nerve ganglions and reactivates years and decades later. Shingles cause a painful rash, typically appearing as a belt shape on one side of the torso. When a person has shingles, the blisters are contagious and the virus can spread through direct contact. Complications may include postherpetic neuralgia, vision loss, neurological effects and skin infections.
81 people with Herpes Zoster are on Alike.
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Signs & symptoms
Symptoms include sensations of pain, numbness or tingling and sensitivity to touch that are followed by rash. Also, some blisters and itching may be felt. Some people also have fever, headache, light sensitivity, and fatigue.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include culture of the blisters.
Treatment
There is no cure for shingles, but antiviral drugs such as acyclovir may reduce the risk of complications. Pain relievers are also important.
Note
☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike
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