Stress Management

Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Shingles is a very painful and often debilitating condition caused by the herpes zoster virus, which is also responsible for chickenpox. After an episode of chickenpox the virus lies dormant, sometimes for years, and then reactivates itself causing first sensitivity and then pain in the area served by the nerve. A rash appears within about five days, first as small red spots then blisters. Within about two days the blisters become yellow and crusted, dropping off within about two weeks but occasionally leaving scarring. The pain may persist for months or even years.

1/01/04