HERPES ZOSTER

Herpes zoster, or shingles, is caused by the same virus that produces chicken pox. In herpes zoster the virus enters the skin, producing an inflammation of both skin tissue and nerves. There is usually a line of blisters and lot of pain, which often develops before the blisters appear and may persist after they have gone. Although shingles can affect children it is most commonly seen among relatively elderly adults who are, it seems, more susceptible. The diagnosis of herpes zoster should be made by a doctor since the pain and the blisters can be difficult to diagnose accurately. There is not much available in the way of treatment; pain relief with simple analgesics is usually all that can be done. Calamine lotion applied to the blistered skin will usually help retrieve this itching.