How long will shingles take to heal?

Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

Updated on December 26, 2024

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The duration of recovery from herpes zoster varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the condition. If the herpes zoster only causes skin symptoms and does not lead to complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, then it is possible to recover with antiviral treatment within two weeks. However, if it causes other infections or complications like postherpetic neuralgia, then it may take months or even years to heal. Therefore, during the period of suffering from herpes zoster, it is essential to strengthen one's immunity, rest more, and engage in appropriate exercise.

Other Voices

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Written by Yu Gang

Dermatology Department

55sec

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Is herpes zoster the same as chickenpox?

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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Written by Xie Ming Feng

Dermatology

30sec

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herpes zoster symptoms

The symptoms of herpes zoster primarily manifest as irregular erythema on certain parts of the body's skin, followed by clusters of rice-grain or mung bean-sized raised vesicular rash, blisters, and blood blisters. These rashes generally appear on one side of the body, not crossing the body's midline, and are accompanied by local sensations of burning, scalding pain, stabbing pain, numbness, itching, and other abnormal neural sensations.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

33sec

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How is herpes zoster diagnosed?

The diagnosis of herpes zoster is primarily based on clinical symptoms. First, the skin lesions appear as clusters of vesicles, which are distributed in a band-like pattern along one side of peripheral nerves. Second, there is significant neuralgia accompanied by swelling of the local lymph nodes. Third, the skin in the middle is normal. If these three clinical symptoms are present, it can generally be confirmed as herpes zoster.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

47sec

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Is shingles contagious?

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Therefore, shingles is contagious to people, especially children, who have never been infected with the virus. The virus is primarily transmitted through the respiratory tract. Thus, it is recommended that if someone in the household contracts shingles, particularly in households with children, it is crucial to avoid close contact and to implement appropriate isolation measures. It is also important to keep windows open for ventilation to prevent transmitting the virus to children, who may develop chickenpox, or to some adults who may also be susceptible to chickenpox if they have never been infected with the virus before.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

35sec

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Does herpes zoster require hospitalization?

Whether hospitalization is needed after contracting shingles depends on the severity of the condition. In most cases, shingles is mild and does not require hospitalization. Treatment can be managed with oral antiviral medications, supplements to nourish the nerves, and topical medications. However, if the shingles is severe and causes complications, hospitalization may be necessary. It is advised to maintain a light diet, avoid overly spicy foods, and ensure adequate rest.