Shingles is a very painful, but relatively harmless, medical condition that is caused by the reactivation of the Varicella-zoster virus. The condition may be associated with many symptoms including pain, tingling, warmth, redness, or swelling. Some people may experience flu-like symptoms during the condition, while others may not feel anything at all. There are numerous causes of this condition and many of the most common are listed below.
One cause of reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus is being exposed to an outbreak of chickenpox before the virus has had a chance to shed its skin and re-enter the body. For those who have not had chickenpox, chickenpox can make a person more susceptible to herpes zoster, because the virus remains in the brain and nervous system long after the disease has been cleared. A person who has never had chickenpox is less likely to have a severe reaction to the virus.
An unclean environment is another factor that makes a person more likely to experience herpes zoster. A person in a high-risk setting such as a school or work place where they can’t keep their hands and feet clean, are also more likely to experience shingles than someone who is more careful. Because the herpes virus is contagious, it’s important for the affected individual to stay away from those in high-risk environments.
The reactivation of the herpes simplex virus can also be triggered by the pain of a wart or spider bite. It’s important to remember that even a small wound, such as a scrape, can be enough to cause this painful condition.
Accidental injury, such as cuts, scrapes, or cuts on the face or ears, are other sources of acute herpes zoster. In these cases, the condition is known as “herpetic whitlow.”
People who have not had chickenpox are at a greater risk of developing shingles than those who have had chickenpox. It is important to keep a close eye on people who haven’t had chickenpox, since they may be more likely to experience reactivation of the virus.
The herpes simplex virus can be passed on from one person to another. Although herpes can be passed between people, the condition is rare and usually occurs when someone with the virus gets into a person who has not had the chickenpox or shingles virus.
However, the virus can also be transmitted from one partner to another, such as during sexual intercourse or through the use of contraceptives that may contain the herpes simplex virus. A person can pass the virus even when having sex with other partners, although it’s much less likely.
It’s possible for a pregnant woman to pass the herpes simplex virus to her baby during delivery. The baby could be born with an illness that is related to the herpes simplex virus, such as in a rash, fever, joint pain, or swelling.
Another source of reactivation of the herpes simplex virus is the use of certain medications, especially if the condition is first diagnosed during pregnancy. This includes chemotherapy drugs and anti-depressants.
With the increased popularity of shingles and herpes zoster, it’s important to understand that the symptoms of these conditions are different from each other. For example, shingles is a very serious condition and a person should always seek medical attention.
Anyone who has experienced either chickenpox or shingles should be careful and receive prompt medical attention. Seek out an experienced Dermatologist Orlando to help manage any underlying condition.