home conditions herpes zoster

This is the medical term for shingles. Herpes zoster is a common viral infection of the nerves that supply certain areas of the skin. This creates a burning painful rash of small, crusting blisters that appear on a red background. After the rash heals, pain may persist for months or even years. The pain is caused by damage to the nerves.

This virus is the same as the chickenpox virus. Around 20% of people will develop at least one infection. Generally the older age groups are more likely to develop it, younger age groups can also be afflicted.

Pre-eruptive pain (before the rash is evident) can precede the eruption for up to 4 days. Pain usually eases once the eruption appears.

Traditional Chinese names for Herpes Zoster include "Fire belt sore" and "Winding waist fire cinnabar".

Chinese Herbal Medicine can be a very effective treatment for this disease.

Acupuncture can be very effective for the management of the pain associated with this disease.

Chinese Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture can be combined when treating this condition.

Biomedical treatment is with antiviral drugs, but treatment needs to be started as soon as the rash appears to reduce the severity and minimise the nerve damage. Management of pain is with analgesic drugs.

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