What it is
Herpes zoster is a rash of blisters on the skin caused by the varicella zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. Following chickenpox in childhood, the virus remains within the nerve cells in an inactive form. Zoster occurs when some trigger factor reactivates the virus. So remember that you have got this infection from within your own body and have not acquired it from outside.
Zoster affects only one half of the body, either on the trunk, face or limbs. Pain generally comes before the lesions and continues with them. Grouped blisters on a red base develop over a period of a few days, and you can also have burning, pricking and itching in the lesions. The blisters gradually form crusts and scabs, and the illness settles in one to three weeks.
Complications
When zoster occurs in the elderly the pain can persist for several weeks or months and can be distressing. This is called post-herpetic neuralgia. In patients with severely reduced immunity — with cancer, on long-term steroids, or with HIV — the blisters can spread throughout the body. When blisters occur on the forehead and nose the infection can spread to the eyes. Generally, though, zoster is a self-limiting disease.
You will not pass zoster on to another person. However, since the viruses of chickenpox and zoster are the same, a young child who has not had chickenpox can catch chickenpox from you, so keep away from such children.
How we treat it
Your dermatologist might prescribe an antiviral medication called acyclovir. Take the exact doses prescribed, for the proper duration. Acyclovir is generally well tolerated, and side effects are uncommon. You may also have to take painkillers, and sedatives at night.
What you can do
Take adequate rest and wear loose-fitting clothes. Do not fiddle with the blisters. You may need a soothing lotion such as calamine. Be frank with your dermatologist about your doubts and worries.
“When the doctor tells that you have zoster, do not panic.” — Dr. D. A. Satish, patient leaflet
This page is being updated. The clinic is reviewing this information against current practice. Please ask the doctor at your consultation.