Skin, hair & nailsViral infection (reactivation)ICD-10 B02
Shingles (herpes zoster)
Also called: Herpes zoster
Reactivation of the chickenpox virus in a nerve, causing a painful band of blistering rash on one side of the body.
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Causes
- Varicella-zoster virus reactivating from a sensory ganglion
Risk factors
- Age over 50
- Weakened immunity
- Stress
Symptoms
- Burning or tingling pain before the rash
- One-sided band of blisters
- Fever and malaise
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Clinical
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Antivirals (aciclovir, valaciclovir) within 72 hours
- Pain relief
- Urgent eye assessment if on the forehead or nose tip
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Keep blisters clean and covered
- Avoid contact with pregnant women and newborns until crusted
Possible complications
- Post-herpetic neuralgia
- Eye involvement and vision loss
- Ramsay Hunt syndrome
Prevention
- Shingles vaccine (recombinant) for older and immunosuppressed adults
Outlook
Rash resolves in 2–4 weeks; nerve pain can persist.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor within 3 days of the rash; urgently if near the eye.
Sources and further reading
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Related conditions
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