Shingles (herpes zoster) is a highly contagious viral disease, a painful rash caused. It is caused by the herpes virus Varicella zoster; most people are already infected in childhood - then the virus which causes chickenpox.
The most affected are single chickenpox disease in childhood immune to the pathogens. The virus remains latent in the body, but only in rare cases - such as strong immune system or, as we recently accepted by severe stress - may be on the so-called “shingles”. The inflamed nerve tissue. During the incubation period, usually about two weeks, were symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and general malaise observed in the first place but a strong, burning pain in the affected skin. A few days after the onset of pain flush with inflamed skin, there are small nodules and finally sores, a purulent infectious fluid.
On most often are the chest and back area affected. The name “shingles” comes from the stripe-like spread of inflammation on the trunk. However, herpes zoster also almost all other skin attack: Both arms and legs, and head, genitals, hands and feet. Especially dangerous is Zoster Ophthalmic us in the face and eyes are affected. If not treated early with antiviral drugs, the disease can be dangerous to the eyes. It also called Zoster Generalisatus an infestation of the entire nervous system. This occurs very rarely and generally requires a very weakened immune system, for example by leukemia, AIDS or cancer.
The above-mentioned treatment with antiviral is in most cases not necessary. When partially limited disease and other immune system goes unbeeintrachtigtem usually a local treatment with zinc Schuttel mixtur.