Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection brought on by the chickenpox virus that affects a nerve and the skin around it. As a result, the affected area develops blistered itchy, painful rash. Only people who have previously experienced chickenpox can get shingles.

The virus stays in the nerves after the initial infection and causes shingles when it reawakens in one specific nerve. After the initial chickenpox infection, this can occur years or even decades later. The virus frequently re-emerges in these ways in patients with compromised immune systems, however it is unclear why. The duration of each case of shingles might range from a few weeks to a month.

Although there is no known cure for shingles, there are several therapies that can help make the discomfort it causes more bearable. You should speak to our clinician or your GP right away if you suspect that you have shingles.