How does one get shingles? This infectious disease is caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a virus found in the herpes family. Its precise name was called Shingles in England and was first reported in Australia in 1947. The name was changed because of its occurrence in Australia rather than in Southeastern Asia.
The virus is spread easily through the secretions of the skin and other fluid membranes. Human hosts have developed various strains of the disease. One of the strains called Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes shingles. There are several types of shingles vaccines being developed and being introduced in the market as of recent.
The causative agent can remain dormant in the body for years together. When an individual contacts the disease, he/she develops shingles immediately after the exposure. Shingles symptoms develop on the same day as the exposure and last for at least seven days. They include burning sensations, pain and tenderness in the areas of contact. Highly effective cream for shingles can help to alleviate the painful symptoms. A new shingles vaccine has been developed by the pharmaceutical companies and is currently undergoing clinical trials to generate better results and efficacy.
How does one get shingles? Risk factors that increase the chances of getting the disease are infections that occur in the elderly, immune-compromised individuals, patients with underlying conditions such as heart diseases and diabetes, women during their menstrual period, children and those who consume alcohol. Symptoms of shingles tend to vary from person to person and they vary in manifestations. The clinical manifestations normally include rashes, pain, burning sensations, itching and watery eyes.
How does one get shingles if he/she has never had chicken pox before? If you have never had chicken pox or have had an outbreak of shingles before, then the most likely cause of your shingles outbreak is due to postherpetic neuralgia. Postherpetic neuralgia is caused by the presence of virus in the nerve tissue. This kind of illness tends to happen more often in people who have suffered from chicken pox. There is no cure for postherpetic neuralgia.
How does one get shingles if he/she is already immune compromised? If your immune system is already compromised, then the only way to acquire shingles is through exposure to the herpes simplex virus. In other words, shingles are caused by the reaction of your body with the stimulus that causes the appearance of the blisters. Thus, in order to get rid of shingles, you must strengthen your immune system by taking in lots of vitamin C and Zinc. You must also stay away from viruses such as rotavirus, cytomegalovirus and swine flu.
How does one get shingles if he/she has been vaccinated against chicken pox? Vaccine induced shingles cannot really be called “shingles” since it is not a virus but rather a protein substance known as Varicella zoster virus. Chicken pox has been known to cause various complications such as fever, headaches, muscle aches, rash, conjunctivitis, etc. But the symptoms of this vaccine induced shingles will disappear within 3 days of being vaccinated. However, the problem remains that the virus might persist and return after the immunity phase wears off and thus one should be vigilant about getting vaccinated again.
So, how does one get shingles? Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which has recently been found to be responsible for more than 80% of all cases worldwide. The first step is to identify the virus by a simple blood test. Once identified, there are various treatments that can be used to get rid of the pain and discomfort.
The pain caused by shingles is moderate and controllable. The condition may even go away on its own in some people. But since shingles are caused by the herpes simplex virus, people suffering from this condition will need ongoing treatment. There are non-invasive treatments available for shingles that can significantly reduce the pain felt during the outbreak.
To prevent recurrence of the illness, patients are advised to stay away from the sick person. Avoid contact with the blister because the virus can linger in secretions from the area and cause a relapse. The patient’s immune system needs time to recover from the illness before it can get better to avoid contact with the blister is important.
How does one get shingles? The virus stays in the nerves and tissues of the skin and causes serious blisters which can be painful. It is important to keep the body and mind prepared to take care of the infection. If you think you have been infected with shingles, it is best to consult a doctor and get the proper medication. And remember that a proper diet and healthy lifestyle can also help prevent outbreaks.