Understanding Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

What is Gürtelrose?

Gürtelrose, also known as shingles, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After having chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in the body's nerve cells. Years later, the virus can reactivate and travel along the nerves to the skin, causing shingles.

Risk Factors for Gürtelrose

Anyone who has had chickenpox can get shingles. However, some people are at higher risk, including:

• People over the age of 50
• People with weakened immune systems
• People who have had organ transplants
• People who are taking certain medications, such as steroids

Symptoms of Gürtelrose

The most common symptom of shingles is a painful rash. The rash usually appears on one side of the body and can be accompanied by:

• Pain
• Tingling
• Itching
• Blisters
• Fever
• Chills
• Headache

Treatment for Gürtelrose

There is no cure for shingles, but treatment can help to relieve symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness. Treatment options include:

• Antiviral medications
• Pain relievers
• Antihistamines
• Calamine lotion

Prevention of Gürtelrose

The best way to prevent shingles is to get the shingles vaccine. The shingles vaccine is available for people over the age of 50. It is also available for people with weakened immune systems. The vaccine is safe and effective and can help to reduce the risk of developing shingles by up to 90%.