Treatment of infectious complications

Herpes Zoster: Causes and Symptoms

Herpes zoster occurs when the Varicella-Zoster virus, which has been dormant in the body after a previous chickenpox infection, reactivates.

The main causes of virus activation include:

• Reduced immunity. This can be a natural decline in immune response over time, especially in older age, or the presence of diseases that affect the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or autoimmune diseases.
• Stress. Excessive psychological or physical strain can provoke the reactivation of the virus. Stress increases levels of hormones that can suppress the immune response.
• Physical injuries or surgeries in the area where the affected nerves are located.
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause.
• Coexisting chronic or prolonged illnesses that require specific treatment and lead to the exhaustion of the body.

Symptoms of Herpes Zoster

Herpes zoster manifests a range of characteristic symptoms that can vary in intensity. The main signs include:

• Prodromal symptoms. A few days before the rash appears, patients may experience mild itching or tingling in the area where the rash will later develop, localized painful sensations or discomfort, sometimes resembling neuralgic manifestations, general malaise, headaches, and increased fatigue.
• Rash. Within 1-5 days after the onset of prodromal symptoms, a red rash appears on the skin, typically located along the nerve pathways, usually on one side of the body. This can manifest as herpes zoster on the torso, face, or back.

The rash consists of small blisters filled with clear fluid that eventually burst and turn into crusts. It can be accompanied by intense itching and burning, causing additional discomfort.

• Pain. Often, it is quite severe, aching or burning in nature, occurring in the area of the rash and may persist for several weeks even after the skin manifestations disappear. This phenomenon is known as postherpetic neuralgia. The pain can be so intense that it hinders daily activities.
• Systemic symptoms. Some patients may experience general manifestations, such as fever (increased body temperature), headaches, muscle pain, and a constant feeling of weakness. Sometimes there is an increase in lymph nodes in the area of the lesion.

Understanding the symptoms and causes of herpes zoster helps in timely medical consultation and the determination of adequate treatment to prevent complications.

When to See a Doctor

It is important to consult a physician if you suspect you have herpes zoster, especially if the rash is accompanied by severe pain or neurological symptoms (weakness, tingling, loss of sensation), if there is an immunocompromised state (due to HIV, cancer treatment, or other conditions), or if signs of infection develop, such as pus, a red ring around the rash, or fever.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of herpes zoster generally includes:

• Clinical examination, during which the doctor examines the rash, assesses symptoms, and reviews the medical history. Often, such data is sufficient to establish a diagnosis.
• Laboratory tests: In some cases, testing of a sample of fluid from the blisters may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, along with complete blood and urine tests to identify signs of infection, inflammation, and to assess general health status.
• Determination of the type of virus if needed.

Treatment and Recovery

The treatment of herpes zoster aims to reduce pain, prevent complications, and shorten the duration of the illness. The main treatment methods involve the administration of medication therapy. The groups of drugs used for therapy include:

• Antivirals: such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, prescribed to stop the replication of the virus. The earlier treatment begins, the more effective it will be.
• Analgesics: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: may sometimes be prescribed to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms, though risks should be considered when using them.

Treatment for herpes zoster on the body, face, or back usually lasts from 7 to 10 days, depending on the severity of the disease and the body's response to treatment.

Benefits of Choosing the "Dobrobut" Clinical Vertebrology Center

By choosing the "Dobrobut" Clinical Vertebrology Center, you receive several advantages that contribute to a swift recovery:

• Qualified Specialists: Our team consists of experienced infectious disease specialists, vertebrologists, and neurologists who have substantial expertise in treating herpes zoster and other infectious complications.
• Personalized Approach: We take into account the individual characteristics of each patient. Our doctors develop a personalized treatment plan based on the type of complications and overall health.
• Modern Diagnostic and Treatment Methods: We use only proven and effective medical diagnostic and treatment methods. This includes the use of the latest antiviral medications and advanced pain management techniques.
• Rehabilitation: After the treatment is completed, doctors provide recommendations for further self-care and ways to strengthen the immune system to reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Comfortable Conditions for Patients: We ensure a comfortable environment for our patients so that treatment proceeds as effectively and stress-free as possible.

If you suspect that you may have herpes zoster or have questions about the treatment of infectious complications, contact the "Dobrobut" Clinical Vertebrology Center through the form on our website or by calling the contact center.