Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The virus may be active in dormant stages, called a cold sore. When an individual has an exposure to a contaminated area or an injury that causes a wound, such as a broken bone, the virus can be reactivated. It will cause a rash, blistery appearance, and typically occurs on only one side of the body at a time. The rash can cover the face, neck, upper body, and even the legs.
Many people confuse shingles with other conditions, such as chickenpox. While some symptoms of shingles are similar to those of chickenpox, these conditions usually last for less than 10 days. Shingles symptoms may include fever, body aches, headaches, and vomiting. These symptoms are easily mistaken for other illnesses. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms after being exposed to an injured area or if you develop a rash after developing shingles.
The reason why do sores look red? Because this is one of the first signs of shingles in individuals who have not yet developed the infection. A rash usually appears on one side of the body, but it can also be seen on the back or neck. Most individuals will experience mild to moderate symptoms. However, the condition can also lead to complications, which may include long-term complications, such as pneumonia.
Why do sores look like the letter “S”? People with severe shingles may appear as if they have put their fingers in a blender, as the red rashes will appear all over their body. Individuals with milder forms of shingles may only experience redness on one side of the body. This is common for those who have had the herpes simplex virus for an extended period of time.
Why do shingles itch so much? If you scratch your skin during the healing process, you will likely leave tiny open wounds that become infected. These wounds will look like blisters until they heal. As the blisters heal, the area will become painful. It is for this reason that individuals may feel intense itching or pain whenever they touch the infected area.
Why do shingles appear on the same area repeatedly? When the virus is dormant and in remission, it will not appear anywhere on the body. In the event of an outbreak, the virus will travel from the area that it originated, through the blood stream and then return to the same area to cause another outbreak. This is how a person will have two or more outbreaks in the same area within a five day period. A person should take note that the medication used during the previous outbreak has a possibility of causing another outbreak.
Why do shingles itch so much? This question may seem silly, but if you have ever experienced extreme itching that is similar to that which accompanies the rash that accompanies chicken pox, you are familiar with the discomfort and embarrassment that are associated with shingles. The reason why shingles itch so much is because the blisters are contagious! If you have never experienced this uncomfortable discomfort, you will probably be unaware that you are contagious when you experience an outbreak. Therefore, effective treatment regimen must be used prior to the development of shingles.
Why do shingles appear as red bumps rather than the traditional white appearance? While most people associate the appearance of shingles with the appearance of the rash, there are a few individuals who believe that this appearance is caused by a reaction to a medication. Therefore, if you are currently taking a medication that has been prescribed for another illness, it is important to notify your doctor about this so that the proper treatment can be administered. This will also help prevent other problems from developing as a result of the medication.