Herpes Skin Rash

The herpes skin rash known as shingles may begin as a childhood disease called chickenpox. After contracting chicken pox, the virus can transform to a herpes skin rash called shingles, later in life. Listed below are some of the symptoms and treatments for shingles.

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), which is in the herpes family. Once the symptoms of chickenpox go away, the virus moves into an area of the nervous system called the dorsal root ganglia. There, the VZV can lay dormant until a person’s immune system becomes compromised. Under conditions such as emotional distress or AIDS, the virus may revive itself in the form of herpes zoster—also known as shingles. A herpes skin rash is not caused by the same virus as genital herpes or oral herpes.

Shingles appear as a rash or painful blisters on either the right or left side of the body. The rash may wrap from the front around to the back of the upper torso. This virus may also appear on the arms, forehead or stomach. Shingles can be very painful; however, some people experience very little pain with this herpes skin rash. People who suffer from shingles pain that never goes away may develop what is called postherpetic neuralgia.

Because the herpes skin rash affects the nervous system, diagnosing this disease could be difficult at first. When it begins affecting the skin, doctors can pinpoint the problem more easily. The blisters on the skin will begin to pop and release liquid. After that, they will begin to heal. From start to finish, the outbreak may last three to four weeks. Some of the symptoms may include persistent fever and headaches, fatigue, digestive problems, chills, painful blisters on the skin, and itching. Persons exhibiting symptoms of this herpes skin rash should visit a physician immediately. If left untreated, this disease could cause hearing problems, encephalitis, or death.

The herpes skin rash (shingles) is not fully contagious, as long as there is no direct contact with open blisters. Once the blisters have crusted over, the risk of spreading this herpes skin rash is reduced.

Once a physician diagnoses this herpes skin rash, there are drugs to help this disease. Antiviral medications such as valtrex, zovirax and famvir can reduce the duration of shingles. Pain medications may also be prescribed. Patients with this herpes skin rash should keep the affected area clean, and wash with soap and water. Applying anti-itching creams and cool compresses can help ease the symptoms of this herpes skin rash. To avoid making shingles worse, do not scratch the infected areas.

The herpes skin rash referred to as shingles can be a very painful experience. Associated with chickenpox, the herpes zoster virus can be quite dangerous if left untreated. Always visit a physician if shingles are suspected. Cover open sores with clothing and avoid close contact with others to prevent spreading this herpes skin rash.