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Agree Agree Agree StayHerpes zoster, often referred to as shingles, is an unbearably painful viral infection that can significantly impact a person's quality of life 1#. This debilitating condition can disrupt sleep, work, and personal relationships, leading to physical discomfort and emotional distress 1.
While many are familiar with the characteristic painful, red rash, the underlying causes and risk factors associated with this condition are often misunderstood.
Let's explore the complexities of herpes zoster disease to understand its causes, symptoms, and prevention better.
Herpes zoster (shingles) is a painful viral disease caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox 2#. After a person has chickenpox, the virus remains dormant or inactive in the nervous system. It can reactivate years later, leading to a painful red rash 2#.
The herpes zoster rash typically appears as a single, blistering stripe on either the left or right side of the torso or on other areas of the body. This rash usually resolves within 2 to 4 weeks 3.
Approximately 1 in 3 individuals may experience herpes zoster at some point in their lives 4.
The varicella-zoster virus is responsible for herpes zoster disease and is the same virus that causes chickenpox (varicella) 2. Chickenpox typically occurs in childhood as the primary varicella-zoster virus infection 5. It appears as an itchy rash that begins with small bumps and blisters, eventually forming dried crusts within 7 to 10 days. If you have had chickenpox, the virus can reactivate in your body, causing shingles 2.
The exact cause of the varicella-zoster virus's reactivation is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to a decline in cell-mediated immunity specific to the virus 6. This decline can occur naturally with ageing or due to certain medical conditions that weaken the immune system.
Possible herpes zoster cause factors include:
The first symptoms of herpes zoster include unbearable pain and a burning sensation, usually on one side of the body 14#. This pain can feel like electric shocks 15# or nail piercing sensations 15, lasting for weeks or months 16#. Many individuals describe it as being more painful than chickenpox 17# and even labour pain during pregnancy 18#.
The unbearable pain of herpes zoster disease affects nearly every aspect of life 1#:
Following the pain, a red rash develops, appearing as a band of small, fluid-filled blisters around one side of the body, either the left or right 14. The rash may also occur around one eye or on one side of the face 14.
In rare cases, the rash can spread across the body and resemble a chickenpox rash 14. This typically happens in individuals with weakened immune systems 14.
In addition to the common rash, other herpes zoster symptoms may include 14:
Beyond these symptoms, herpes zoster can lead to many complications, including:
Herpes zoster disease can cause severe pain that can greatly affect daily life 1#. The best way to prevent this viral infection is through vaccination 23. This vaccination, available for adults aged 50 and older 23, significantly lowers the risk of infection by boosting the body’s natural defences, allowing it to develop immunity against the disease 24.
In simpler terms, vaccinations work by mimicking an infection, helping the body to develop immunity 24. Adults in this age group should consult their doctor to learn more about herpes zoster disease and discuss vaccination options to protect themselves from its symptoms and complications.
Conclusion
Herpes zoster (shingles) is a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus 2#. This condition can significantly affect a person's quality of life 1. Although it is often associated with ageing 4, its causes are complex and include factors such as a history of chickenpox 2, immune system health 6, and underlying medical conditions 6. By understanding these risk factors, individuals can take proactive measures to reduce their risk.
Vaccination is an effective way to lower the chances of developing herpes zoster and its potential complications, particularly for those aged 50 and older 23.
For more information about herpes zoster disease and its prevention, consult a healthcare professional.
References:
# Individual patient symptoms of Shingles may vary. These statements are based on some patients’ descriptions of their shingles' pain and do not represent every patient’s experience.
Disclaimer:
A public awareness initiative by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai 400 030, India. Information appearing in this material is for general awareness only. Nothing contained in this material constitutes medical advice. Please consult your doctor for medical advice or any question or concern you may have regarding your condition. Please consult your doctor for the complete list of vaccine-preventable diseases and the complete vaccination schedule for each disease. Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies. All scientific information is validated, for details write to us on askus@gsk.com. ©️2025 GSK or Licensor.
Cl code: NP-IN-HZU-WCNT-250001
Dop: February 2025