Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :

1. Can shingles be prevented?

Yes, shingles can be prevented through the shingles vaccine, recommended for individuals over 50 or those with weakened immune systems. The vaccine reduces the risk of developing shingles and its complications.

2. How long does shingles last?

There is no definitive cure for Adie’s Pupil, but treatment can help manage symptoms, improve vision, and reduce discomfort.

3. Is shingles contagious?

Shingles itself is not contagious, but someone with an active shingles rash can spread the Varicella Zoster Virus to individuals who haven’t had chickenpox or the vaccine, potentially causing them to develop chickenpox.

What is Shingles (Herpes Zoster)?

Shingles is a viral infection characterized by a painful rash that typically appears on one side of the body or face. It’s more common in older adults or individuals with weakened immune systems. The virus lies dormant in the nerve tissues after a person recovers from chickenpox and can reactivate years later as shingles.

Causes of Shingles

Shingles occurs due to the reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus, which stays inactive in the body’s nerve cells after a person recovers from chickenpox. The exact reason why the virus reactivates is not always clear, but certain factors can trigger it, such as:

Aging: Risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV, cancer, or medications (e.g., steroids, chemotherapy) can lower immunity.
Stress or Trauma: High stress levels or physical injuries can sometimes trigger the reactivation.

Types of Shingles

Shingles can manifest in different forms depending on which part of the body it affects:

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus: Affects the eye, potentially leading to vision loss.
Herpes Zoster Oticus: Impacts the ear, causing ear pain and hearing problems.
General Shingles: Appears on the body as a painful rash, often in a band-like pattern.
Disseminated Zoster: In rare cases, shingles can spread to other areas beyond the initial rash.

Symptoms of Shingles

Shingles typically begins with early signs such as:

Pain, burning, or tingling in a specific area.
Sensitivity to touch.
Red rashes that develop into fluid-filled blisters.
Itching and tenderness.

In severe cases, shingles can lead to complications like:

Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN): Long-term nerve pain after the rash heals.
Vision Loss: If it affects the eyes (Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus).
Scarring or Skin Infections: Due to severe blistering.

Diagnosis of Shingles

Dr. Suraj Munjal diagnoses shingles based on the patient’s history and physical symptoms. During a consultation, he will carefully examine the affected area, particularly the eyes if ocular shingles is suspected. Additional tests may include:

Viral Cultures or Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): To detect the presence of the Varicella Zoster Virus.
Blood Tests: To assess immune function, especially in individuals with suspected immune compromise.

Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid complications, particularly for the eyes.

Treatment of Shingles

Shingles can be managed with early intervention to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. Common treatments include:

Antiviral Medications: Such as acyclovir or valacyclovir, which help reduce the virus’s activity.
Pain Management: Through over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) or stronger prescription medications.
Topical Creams: To soothe the rash and reduce itching.
Steroids or Anti-inflammatory Drugs: In certain cases, to manage severe pain or inflammation.
Eye Care: For shingles affecting the eyes, immediate consultation with an ophthalmologist like Dr. Suraj Munjal is necessary. Specialized treatments, including antiviral eye drops or oral medications, may be recommended.

Cost of Shingles Treatment and Stay in India

India offers high-quality treatment for shingles at affordable costs, attracting patients from across the globe. The cost of shingles treatment, particularly for complications involving the eyes, varies depending on the severity and chosen treatment plan. On average:

Antiviral medication treatment may range between $200 to $500.
Ocular shingles treatment involving advanced care may cost more due to specialized consultation and medication.

DR. SURAJ MUNJAL

DR. SURAJ MUNJAL

DR. SURAJ MUNJAL

Shingles (Herpes Zoster)