Is herpes zoster the same as chickenpox?

Written by Yu Gang
Dermatology Department
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Herpes zoster is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Typically, this virus causes chickenpox in children, but in adults, it manifests as herpes zoster, which is unrelated to chickenpox. The herpes zoster virus primarily attacks the nerves, causing neuralgia. Therefore, it is generally recommended to rest, consume a light diet, and avoid spicy foods, seafood, and rich foods. Treatment usually involves the use of acyclovir and valacyclovir for topical application. Oral nutritional supplements for the nerves, such as vitamin B1 and B12, and spleen peptides to enhance the body's immunity, are also recommended. It is important to rest and pay attention to these aspects. It is best to visit a local dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.

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What is shingles?

Herpes zoster is a viral skin disease, and humans are the only hosts for the varicella-zoster virus. Therefore, the virus can easily enter the bloodstream through the respiratory tract mucosa, leading to viremia, and consequently causing chickenpox or presenting as a latent infection. The virus can lie dormant for long periods in our ganglia or nerve roots. When the body is stimulated again, leading to a decrease in resistance, the dormant virus can be activated, which may result in herpes zoster.

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Early symptoms of shingles

The prodromal symptoms of shingles primarily refer to mild fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, and general discomfort that occur before the rash appears. There is also a burning sensation and pain in the affected skin area, which feels significantly sensitive to touch. Generally, these symptoms can last from 1 to 5 days, but some people may not exhibit any prodromal symptoms and develop the rash directly.

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Written by Yu Gang
Dermatology Department
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Can you drink alcohol with herpes zoster?

Herpes zoster is caused by a viral infection of the nerves, usually following a cold. It is important to rest, avoid alcohol, and not eat spicy or rich foods. Additionally, take some antiviral medication such as acyclovir orally, and vitamins B1 and B12 to nourish the nerves. Make sure to rest well, avoid staying up late, and refrain from overexertion. For external use, it is best to apply some acyclovir to prevent infection.

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How long should shingles be isolated?

The contagious period of shingles is about two weeks, so it is advisable to isolate for two to three weeks. Shingles typically occurs in people with weakened immune systems and is mainly caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The primary symptoms are red blister clusters on the skin that follow nerve pathways, accompanied by significant pain. Treatment primarily focuses on antiviral medication, nourishing the nerves, and relieving pain. Generally, within two to three weeks, the rash can crust over and shed, at which point it is no longer contagious, and isolation is no longer necessary.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is herpes zoster prone to recurrence?

After recovery from herpes zoster, it is not easy for the condition to recur. Herpes zoster is a disease caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which infects the human body and lies dormant in the nerve roots, particularly when the immune system is weakened. Therefore, after recovery from herpes zoster, patients generally do not suffer from it again and can obtain long-lasting immunity. However, clinically, there are indeed some herpes zoster patients who experience recurrent episodes. This often directly relates to a decline in the patient's own immune resistance. Patients with underlying diseases, those who are chronically tired or fatigued, or those using immunosuppressive drugs, are prone to recurrent episodes of herpes zoster. Thus, while it is not easy for herpes zoster to recur, it is not absolutely non-recurrent.