Herpes Zoster Shingles

What is Herpes Zoster Shingles?

Herpes zoster shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After your initial outbreak of chickenpox, if the virus causes another breakout, this is shingles which is caused by zoster.

How do you get Herpes Zoster Shingles?

You get herpes zoster shingles from having chickenpox. The virus stays in your body and when the virus is reactivated, you get shingles. You can not get shingles from shingles but in a way they are still contagious. If you have never had chickenpox or never been vaccinated for chickenpox, you can get it from a person with shingles if you come in contact with their sores.

Chickenpox

Now we know herpes zoster shingles is related to chickenpox. It is essentially, a reoccurrence of chickenpox. The sores or lesions that are produced from the virus are highly contagious, particularly when they erupt and within the first 24-48 hours. Usually after 7 days, the person is no longer contagious but may still have scars or scabbing from the sores.

You have heard people say you can not get chickenpox twice. This is basically true. Your body builds antibodies that prevent you from getting the disease again. Since shingles is a reactivation of this, you may get shingles again and again.

Painkillers? Helpful or Not...

Antiviral medications are usually provided to treat shingles and a chickenpox vaccine is available to prevent infection of chickenpox to begin with. Treatment may sometimes include painkillers to ease discomfort. Over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen will also help with the discomfort of the blisters. If this is not helping your pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers.

You may also want to place cool, wet washcloths over the blisters. Get lots of rest and try to avoid rubbing of the blisters on clothing or sheets or blankets.