Herpes zoster treatment in adults incubation period. Routes of infection and incubation period of herpes zoster

The incubation period of herpes lasts from 1 day to a month. This is common for an airborne virus. However, more accurate indicators of incubation of the herpes virus can be discussed depending on its type.

Causes of virus infection

Herpes is a very humble phenomenon of the biological world. Yes, it causes disease, causes trouble, weakens the body, causing harm to its owner. However, he does not seek to kill the body in which he has settled, as if understanding that by destroying his habitat, he himself will die. The same cannot be said about the causative agents of plague and smallpox, AIDS viruses and SARS. The modest behavior of the herpes virus allows it to settle in the human body for its entire long life, without causing fatal damage to its host as its lifelong habitat.

When herpes enters our body, the incubation period of this virus depends on how quickly it manages to overcome the resistance of the body's defense system.

Herpes is not able to overcome the protection of healthy skin. Moreover, infection through the mucous membrane also does not always go smoothly and successfully. However, this virus enters our body only through the mucous membrane of the mouth or genital openings, as well as through damaged skin on the body.

The main areas of penetration are primarily the mouth and nose, and to a lesser extent the genital area.

The most common reason for viruses getting into areas favorable for infection is dirty hands. This concept is, of course, relative. After all, people who suffer from herpes are clean people who live in good sanitary conditions, usually eat well, and have the opportunity to be treated when the need arises.

The path of the virus into our body is through overcoming the protective covers into the nerve processes, and then into the nerve cell located in the spinal cord. Apparently, this is the safest refuge for the virus.

Secondary lesion

If the virus manages to penetrate a nerve cell or at least its process, this means that a person will periodically be visited by the characteristic herpes rashes on the lips, genitals and nearby skin.

In a nerve cell, the virus is well protected from the effects of the immune system, but the cell itself is defenseless against this carrier of foreign information. Herpes does not destroy the nerve cell, but causes it to produce new virions.

During the initial infection, as herpes penetrates the nerve cells, the body's defenses are activated. This leads to the appearance of immunoglobulin, that is, proteins that bind and neutralize the virus.

At this time, a characteristic rash appears. At the moment of maximum immunoglobulin activity, the rash disappears.

If the body is healthy and the immune system is always on guard, then antibodies constantly destroy viruses that strive to reach the surface of the body. It is in this balance of opposition that the virus and the organism coexist.

However, if the immune system weakens, then along the process of the nerve cell where the virus is hidden, it comes to the surface with damage to the part of the skin that is innervated by this nerve cell.

After several such outbreaks on the surface, herpes can spread its influence throughout the entire body, changing the localization of herpes rashes on the skin. The appearance of profuse rashes on the face outside the lips indicates a relapse of the viral manifestation.

There is virtually no chance of the virus moving through parts of the face to other areas of the body below the head. The fact is that while herpes is localized in a nerve cell that extends its axons to the face, it cannot move, for example, to the genital part of the body.

After secondary exposure to the face, the virus cannot move into cells innervating other parts of the body. Only primary infection with viruses is possible, which a person, for example, carries with dirty hands.

Incubation period of different types of herpes

Eight types of herpes viruses have been found in humans. They are transmitted mainly through contact, air and sexual transmission. The specificity of herpes is that after penetration into the body it may not appear for a long time. This hidden period of development can be realized in different ways in different cases.

Methods for diagnosing herpes

When characteristic single or massive rashes appear on the body, this means the beginning of the active stage of the disease. Is it possible to detect the presence of this virus during its incubation period?

There are methods to determine the presence and activity of herpes using laboratory tests. The most popular biomarker in this case is ESR:

This biomarker is determined primarily when infection and inflammation in the body are suspected. However, using this biomarker, you can only determine the presence or absence of pathology in the body. The nature of the disease, the pathogen and its localization cannot be identified in this way.

This indicator of human health has a wide range of fluctuations, and it differs greatly according to characteristics such as gender and age.

For example, in men the ESR norm is in the range from 2 to 12 mm/h, in women - from 3 to 20 mm/h. With age, ESR tends to increase, so in older people this figure is within the normal range at values ​​up to 40–50 mm/h.

Most often, when pathological processes appear in the body, an increase in ESR is observed, and a significant one. However, this is not a diagnosis, but a signal to action. The onset of the active stage of herpes is usually accompanied by a significant increase in ESR. This is a reason for further more detailed examination of the body.

If an increase in ESR is not accompanied by symptoms, this means that the disease is maturing in a latent stage. In this case, a thorough analysis is carried out to identify abnormalities in other biomarkers. It is possible to detect the presence of herpes at the latent stage of development, but the biggest problem is to understand how to do this.

Herpes is an insidious disease, but it can only become dangerous if it is left unchecked. Early detection of herpes and constant treatment will keep this virus in a state of minimal danger to the body.

• Prevention of Shingles (herpes zoster)
• Which doctors should you contact if you have Shingles (herpes zoster)

What is Shingles (herpes zoster)

Persons who have previously had chickenpox become ill. The disease mainly affects elderly and senile people. The incidence of the disease varies from 5 to 10 per 1000 people aged 60-80 years. In some patients (about 2% of patients with normal immunity and 10% of patients with immunodeficiencies), the disease recurs. When previously unaffected children come into contact with people with herpes zoster, they develop typical chickenpox.

What Causes Shingles (herpes zoster)

The causative agent of the disease is a virus of the Herpesviridae family, which causes shingles and chickenpox. Like many other members of the Herpesviridae family, the virus is unstable in the external environment: it quickly dies when heated, under the influence of ultraviolet rays and disinfectants. Able to be stored for a long time at low temperatures and withstand repeated freezing.

Pathogenesis (what happens?) during Shingles (herpes zoster)

Shingles often occurs in people who are exposed to various influences that weaken the immune system (patients with leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis, neoplasms, receiving chemotherapy, long-term users of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, the infection develops especially often in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Elderly people become ill due to an age-related decrease in immune defense. As a result, a latent infection with the varicella zoster virus is activated, which has persisted in the body for several decades without causing any clinical manifestations. An obligatory component of the activation of infection is a kind of viral ganglioneuritis with damage to the intervertebral ganglia (or ganglia of the cranial nerves) and damage to the dorsal roots. The virus can involve the autonomic ganglia in the process and cause meningoencephalitis. Internal organs may also be affected. Thus, in the picture of herpes zoster, unlike chickenpox, it is not so much the epitheliotropic but the neurotropic properties of the virus that come to the fore.

Symptoms of Shingles (herpes zoster)

Incubation period with herpes zoster (from the initial infection to reactivation) lasts for many years.

The initial period of the disease can be manifested by prodromal signs: headache, malaise, low-grade body temperature, chills, and dyspeptic disorders. At the same time, pain, burning and itching, as well as tingling and paresthesia along the peripheral nerve trunks in the area of ​​future rashes may occur. The intensity of these subjective local signs varies in individual patients. The duration of the initial period varies from 1 to 3-4 days; in adults it is observed more often and it is usually longer than in children.

In most cases, the disease begins acutely. Body temperature can rise to 38-39 °C; its rise is accompanied by general toxic reactions (headache, malaise, chills). At the same time, skin rashes with characteristic pain and other subjective sensations appear in the innervation zone of one or more spinal ganglia.

At first, the exanthema has the appearance of limited pink spots 2-5 mm in size, but on the same or the next day, small, closely grouped vesicles with transparent serous contents, located on a hyperemic and edematous base, form against their background. In most cases, exanthema is accompanied by enlargement and tenderness of regional lymph nodes; Children often show signs of upper respiratory tract catarrh.

The exanthema is localized according to the projection of one or another sensory nerve. Most often, the lesion is unilateral: along the intercostal nerves, branches of the trigeminal nerve on the face, less often along the nerves of the limbs. In some cases, skin lesions are observed in the genital area. As the disease progresses, new spots may appear at intervals of several days with the development of vesicular elements against their background. After a few days, the erythematous background on which the vesicles are located turns pale, their contents become cloudy. Subsequently, the vesicles dry out and crusts form, falling off by the end of the 3rd week of the disease, leaving light pigmentation.

The elevated body temperature lasts for several days, the symptoms of toxicosis disappear as it normalizes.

The following clinical forms of herpes zoster are distinguished:
1) gangliocutaneous;
2) ear and eye;
3) gangrenous (necrotic);
4) herpes zoster with damage to the autonomic ganglia;
5) meningoencephalitic;
6) disseminated;
7) abortifacient.

Most common gangliocutaneous form The disease begins acutely with fever, symptoms of general intoxication and pronounced burning pain at the site of future rashes. After 3-4 days (sometimes only after 10-12 days) a characteristic rash appears. The localization of pain and rash corresponds to the affected nerves (usually intercostal) and has a surrounding character. The pain sometimes becomes unbearable, intensifying at the slightest touch to the skin, with cooling, or movement. At the site of the vesicular rash, infiltration and hyperemia of the skin first occurs, on which blisters then appear in groups, filled with transparent and then cloudy contents. The bubbles dry out and turn into crusts. Sometimes the disease is characterized by intoxication and neuralgic pain, but there is no rash. When skin rashes appear, the pain usually becomes less intense.

Typical clinical symptoms are the ocular and ear forms of herpes zoster. At eye form The trigeminal node (Gasserian node) is affected and the rash is localized along the branches of the trigeminal nerve (on the mucous membranes of the eye, nose, and on the skin of the face). At ear shape The geniculate ganglion is involved in the process, and rashes appear on and around the auricle, and may also be in the external auditory canal. Facial paralysis may develop. The rash is preceded by symptoms of general intoxication and fever. Trigeminal neuralgia is severe and can last for several weeks. In the ocular form, specific viral keratitis, less often iritis, and glaucoma are observed.

Gangrenous (necrotic) form Shingles usually develops in weakened individuals. There is deep damage to the skin with subsequent formation of scars. One might think that the accumulation of bacterial infection plays a certain role in the genesis of these forms.

Meningoencephalitic form is relatively rare. The disease is severe, with a mortality rate above 60%. This form begins with gangliocutaneous manifestations, most often in the area of ​​the intercostal nerves, although it can also occur in the cervical region. Subsequently, symptoms of meningoencephalitis appear (ataxia, hallucinations, hemiplegia, meningeal symptoms, coma may occur). The time from the appearance of skin rashes to the development of encephalopathy ranges from 2 days to 3 weeks.

Generalized form. Sometimes, a few days after the onset of localized exanthema, single or multiple vesicles appear on all areas of the skin and even on the mucous membranes, which is often mistakenly regarded as an addition to chickenpox herpes zoster. If the exanthema is generalized, as well as in cases where localized herpes does not go away within 2-3 weeks, immunodeficiency or the development of malignant neoplasms should be suspected.

Abortive form. Characterized by the rapid disappearance of an erythematous-papular rash and the absence of vesicles.

Any of the above forms may be accompanied by damage to the autonomic ganglia with the development of symptoms unusual for herpes zoster (vasomotor disorders, Horner's syndrome, urinary retention, constipation or diarrhea).

The severity of the disease is often directly related to the location of the exanthema. Cases with rashes located in the area of ​​innervation of the supraorbital, frontal and nasociliary nerves are characterized by intense neuralgic pain, hyperemia and swelling of the skin, damage to the eyelids, and sometimes the cornea.

The duration of clinical manifestations of herpes zoster in the abortive form is on average several days, in the acute form - 2-3 weeks, in the protracted form - more than a month.

Pain in the area of ​​exanthema with herpes zoster is of a pronounced vegetative nature: it is burning, paroxysmal, intensifies at night and is often accompanied by pronounced emotional reactions. Local paresthesia and skin sensitivity disorders are often observed. Possible radicular paresis of the facial and oculomotor nerves, limbs, abdominal muscles, and bladder sphincter.

The disease can occur with the development of serous meningitis; inflammatory changes in the cerebrospinal fluid are not always accompanied by severe meningeal symptoms. In rare cases, encephalitis and meningoencephalitis are observed in the acute period. Cases of polyradiculoneuropathy and acute myelopathy have been described.

The first episode of herpes zoster is usually followed by persistent remission; recurrence of the disease is observed in no more than a few percent of cases. Most patients recover without residual effects, but neuralgic pain can persist for a long time, for several months or even years.

Complications of herpes zoster: transverse myelitis, accompanied by motor paralysis.

Shingles is more severe in people with HIV and other immunodeficiencies. The duration of the appearance of the rash increases to 1 week, the crusts covering the blisters dry out no earlier than the 3rd week of the disease. Patients with lymphogranulomatosis or lymphoma are at greatest risk of developing progressive shingles, and about 40% of them may have a rash spread over the entire surface of the skin. 5-10% of people with disseminated skin manifestations develop viral pneumonia, meningoencephalitis, hepatitis and other severe complications.

Diagnosis of Shingles (herpes zoster)

With a detailed clinical picture of gangliocutaneous forms of herpes zoster, the diagnosis does not present any difficulties. Errors often occur in the initial period of the disease, when there are symptoms of intoxication, fever and severe pain. In these cases, they are mistakenly diagnosed with angina pectoris, pleurisy, pulmonary infarction, renal colic, acute appendicitis, etc. Differentiated from herpes simplex, erysipelas, acute eczema; generalized form of herpes zoster - from chickenpox. For laboratory confirmation of the diagnosis, detection of the virus by microscopy or using the immunofluorescence method, isolation of the virus in tissue cultures, and serological methods are used.

Laboratory diagnosis of herpes zoster is not carried out in widespread practice.

Treatment of Shingles (herpes zoster)

For the first time during sick days, activities are carried out aimed at combating intoxication, relieving pain and preventing the generalization of infection. The widespread occurrence of chickenpox is due to the presence of antibodies in normal human immunoglobulin. This drug is prescribed intramuscularly, possibly earlier in a dose of 5-10 ml. A single injection is sufficient. It is mandatory to administer human immunoglobulin when treating individuals whose disease occurred due to the use of cytostatics, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or in the presence of severe concomitant diseases (leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis, HIV infection, etc.). Drugs that inhibit immunogenesis should be discontinued. Antibiotics are prescribed only when secondary bacterial complications occur. In case of high fever, 5% glucose solution, Ringer-Locke solution, and isotonic sodium chloride solution are administered to combat intoxication. Vitamins are prescribed. Relieving excruciating pain is a difficult task. Non-narcotic analgesics are used in combination with tranquilizers, and sometimes it is necessary to resort to prescribing narcotics. Additionally, novocaine electrophoresis, novocaine blockade are performed, and diathermy is prescribed.

When herpetic rashes appear, the same drugs are used topically as for chickenpox. For gangrenous forms, increased doses (10-20 ml) of normal human immunoglobulin are re-administered, and antibiotics with antistaphylococcal activity (oxacillin, erythromycin, gentamicin, rifampicin) are prescribed intramuscularly. Ointments containing antibiotics (tetracycline, erythromycin) are used locally. In severe forms of the disease, intravenous ribavirin is used at a dose of 15 mg/kg per day as a long-term (over 12 hours) intravenous infusion. The administration of acyclovir does not reduce pain, but prevents the development of visceral complications.

Herpes zoster or herpes zoster is an infectious disease caused by the virus Varicella zoster. The same virus leads to a disease such as chickenpox (another name is chickenpox), which many suffered from in childhood. This strain of the virus can infect two types of tissue: skin and nerve tissue. With age, when the immune system weakens, many diseases begin to appear, including herpes zoster, the virus of which can remain in a latent (hidden) state for a long time in human neurons (nerve cells).

What does an adult need to know about the disease “shingles”? How does the incubation period of herpes zoster proceed, how long does it last? How to speed up the recovery process if the disease has made itself felt? The answers to these questions will be discussed in this article.

photo shingles

The herpes virus that causes the symptoms of shingles goes through two stages of manifestation. During the first, primary infection with this strain of the virus occurs. The incubation period for infection with the Varicella zoster virus is 13-17 days (the incubation period after 30 years is 11-21 days), after which symptoms of ordinary chickenpox appear, characterized by the appearance of a blistering rash on the body, an increase in temperature, and a febrile state.

With proper treatment, after a few weeks the symptoms of the disease subside and the person recovers. In this case, the body acquires immunity in the form of the ability to produce antibodies against this type of virus. This makes re-infection impossible. However, despite this, Varicella zoster virus particles still remain in the body.

This strain of the virus infects the neurons of the nervous tissue and remains in it in a latent form, that is, it does not manifest itself as a disease until favorable conditions occur. The incubation period (the period of time from the moment viral particles enter the body until the disease manifests itself) of herpes zoster in adults can be several years.

In some cases, the incubation period for shingles in humans can last several decades if infection with the virus occurred in childhood, and the first signs of shingles appeared in old age. The second stage of the manifestation of a viral infection is observed during direct infection with herpes zoster.

Periods of manifestations of the disease

Herpes Zoster goes through 3 development periods:

• prodromal period;
• period of clinical manifestations of the disease;
• period of residual effects.

At the beginning of the first period, the viral infection activates; the viruses begin to actively divide, moving along nerve fibers throughout the body. In this case, viral particles penetrate the cells of the epithelial tissue that forms the skin. After which the patient begins to show the first signs of the disease: the temperature rises, there is a burning sensation, tingling, itching in the areas of future rashes, headache and muscle pain, and general malaise.

During the second period, a rash appears on the epidermis in the form of erythematous vesicles, which are filled with serous fluid. Such neoplasms appear unilaterally, at the site of passage of the affected nerve fibers. Often this is the area under the ribs, face, ears.

It is worth noting that during a relapse of the disease, a person may experience severe pain, since the virus leads to inflammatory processes in the myelin sheath of the nerves and swelling of the affected area. Painful attacks are paroxysmal, similar to a sharp electric shock, and intensify at night. It is worth noting that herpes zoster can manifest itself in the form of radicular pain without the presence of blistering rashes.

When will the illness go away?

After 8-10 days, the vesicular formations begin to dry out, forming light brown crusts, and by 20-30 days the crusts disappear completely, leaving behind small pigmented areas of reddish skin. However, despite the disappearance of erythematous papules, the symptoms of the disease can be felt for a long time (in some cases about a year) - this is the period of residual effects.

This period manifests itself in the form of neuralgia - inflammatory processes of nerve fibers affected by the Zoster virus. The peripheral nervous system (spinal and cranial nerves) is most often affected, which leads to the development of neuropathies, neuralgia, and serous meningitis. If herpes zoster affects the trigeminal nerve, which innervates the facial area, paralysis of the facial nerve may occur, vision problems may occur, including the development of glaucoma, inflammation of the middle and inner ear (otitis media). Pneumonia and liver disease can develop from internal lesions.

Reasons for development

All people who have had chickenpox have a strain of Herpes zoster in their body, which is in a dormant state. A serious malfunction of the immune system can provoke replication (multiple renewal) of the genetic information of the virus. Factors that can provoke immune disorders are the following:

• old age is the most important factor in the development of the disease, since shingles most often manifests itself in older people after 50 years of age;
• frequent stress, prolonged depression;
• hypothermia of the body;
• severe surgical operations, for example, organ transplantation, after which a person is forced to take immunosuppressive drugs.

Also, the presence of HIV infection can lead to frequent relapses of the disease.

How to speed up the healing process?

To speed up the healing process, it is important to approach the treatment of the disease correctly. Therefore, the patient needs to consult a doctor - a dermatologist and a neurologist. To treat shingles, doctors use the following medications:

• analgesics that relieve pain in the area of ​​inflammation of the nerve ganglia and the appearance of a blistering rash;
• antiviral agents (Zovirax, Acyclovir, Valtrex based on valacyclovir), which, although they do not destroy the herpes virus, however block the process of viral DNA replication. Thanks to the above drugs, a person can completely control the reproduction and development of the virus;
• glucocorticosteroid or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which help relieve swelling and soreness;
• immunostimulating drugs that will help improve the functioning of the immune system.

In addition to basic treatment with medications, traditional medicine methods can be used. Perfect for these purposes:

• herbal compresses;
• infusions, decoctions based on medicinal herbs.

To prepare medicinal compresses, you can use a decoction of burdock herb. To prepare it, you need to take a full tablespoon of chopped dry burdock herb, pour 100 ml of boiled water over it and put it in a steam bath. Cook for 5-10 minutes, then leave for 20-30 minutes. Then strain. Soak a bandage or gauze in this broth and apply to the affected area. For compresses, a gruel made from the Marsh Sabelnik plant is perfect. To do this, fresh grass needs to be washed well and ground in a meat grinder until it becomes mushy. Apply the medicine to the affected area of ​​the body, securing with a bandage.

For pain relief, you can use Calamine lotion, menthol, and mint decoction. To strengthen your immune system, you can drink a decoction of willow bark. For this purpose, you need to take a tablespoon of dry, finely chopped willow bark and pour 200 ml of it. a glass of boiling water. Let it brew for 1 hour, strain. Take 3 times a day 20 minutes before meals. All of the above tips will help you properly fight the insidious disease herpes zoster.

Useful video

Shingles is a disease of viral etiology, the incubation period of which can last more than one decade. The causative agent of the disease is herpes virus type 3 (herpes zoster).

Herpetic infection has been known since ancient times; even in the works of Avicenna, Galen and Hippocrates, descriptions of cases of diseases caused by this pathogen are given.

In the 20s of the last century, the herpes virus was first isolated and its pathogenic nature was proven. Animals also suffer from infections caused by the herpes virus.

Why is herpes called shingles?

To answer this question, consider the life cycle of a virus. The herpes virus enters an intact (never encountered a pathogen) body from a sick person. Then it affects the skin, which is how chickenpox appears, and repeated contact with the virus provokes the development of herpes zoster. After chickenpox is cured, the herpetic infection remains in the body forever and settles in the nervous tissue - cells of the dorsal horns of the spinal cord (the most “favorite” place), cranial nerves.

During an unfavorable period for the body (immune system dysfunction), the dormant infection becomes active. The nerve ganglion in which the infection persists becomes inflamed. The virus then spreads along the nerve fibers, also causing inflammation, and reaches the skin. Hyperemia and multiple small blisters with light liquid appear on the skin.

The intercostal nerves originate from the spinal cord, run along the ribs and encircle the torso - which is why the disease is called “shingles”.

Another version of the name of the disease herpes zoster is that the lesions on the skin resemble in appearance a mark from a blow with a belt (from the Latin “cingulum” - belt).

Routes of transmission and causes of disease development

As noted above, when it first enters the human body, type 3 herpes virus causes chickenpox. Repeated contact with the patient or weakened immunity (immunodeficiency) provokes herpes zoster.

The infection enters the body through airborne droplets, contact (through kissing, from personal hygiene items, clothing), from the mother to the fetus during childbirth through the amniotic fluid. A prerequisite is the presence of the virus on the surface of objects - liquid from burst bubbles. The herpes virus is quite stable in the external environment and can persist for a long time, especially at low temperatures, but is quickly destroyed when exposed to ultraviolet radiation and high temperatures.

Shingles occurs in all age groups in people with immune deficiency, but elderly and senile people are more susceptible to the disease.

Causes of immunodeficiency states:

• taking medications (cytostatics, glucocorticoids, long-term antibacterial therapy);
• chronic fatigue;
• lack of sleep;
• poor nutrition;
• hypothermia or overheating;
• malignant diseases and blood diseases (acute and chronic leukemia, anemia of various etiologies);
• HIV in the AIDS stage;
• radiation therapy;
• previous organ and tissue transplantations;
• elderly and senile age;
• pregnancy.

What happens in the body after infection

The period from the moment the infection enters the body until the first signs of the disease appear is called incubation.

The herpes zoster virus, having entered the body, can live for years in the tissues of the human nervous system, waiting for a favorable moment, which is why shingles has a long incubation period.

The incubation period can be divided into stages:

1. Introduction into an uninfected body through the mucous membrane and skin.
2. Reproduction (replication) of viruses in the body and colonization of the pathogen in organs and tissues.
3. “Capture” of the body, contact with the immune system, synthesis of antibodies.

At the end of the incubation period, patients may notice the appearance of malaise, increased body temperature, discomfort on the skin, pain, and itching of the skin. The presence of such complaints indicates the transition of herpes zoster from the incubation period to the next stage of the disease - clinical manifestations.

It should be noted that in some cases of shingles there are no rashes on the skin.

Do not independently search for symptoms and methods of treating the disease on the Internet, and do not consult friends about the disease. Shingles is a dangerous disease that can be fatal if not treated correctly.

How to prevent the development of the disease

Measures to prevent shingles are as follows:

1. Normalize your work and rest schedule (rest more, walk, get enough sleep).
2. Add more fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs to your diet. Especially foods rich in vitamin C (cranberries, citrus fruits, rose hips). During periods of hypovitaminosis, take vitamin complexes.
3. Ventilate the room, especially on sunny days.
4. Do not use cloth towels in public places, only disposable ones.
5. Use disposable tableware in public places.
6. Treat all acute diseases in a timely manner, avoiding the development of complications - for this you need to consult a doctor in a timely manner.
7. Do not contact sick people or wear a mask during the period of their contagiousness; during ARVI epidemics, wear a mask in public places.
8. Do not wear other people's unwashed and unironed clothes.
9. If there is a case of herpes zoster infection in your home or work place, treat all surfaces with an antiseptic.

Remember that in your entire life you cannot avoid encountering infectious agents.

You should take good care of yourself and your health, and if you do get sick, consult a doctor; treatment should be carried out under his strict supervision.

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a viral disease, the characteristic features of which are the reactivation of the herpes virus, manifested by general infectious symptoms, disorders of the nervous system and accompanied by specific skin manifestations.

It is important to identify the symptoms in time and begin proper treatment, this is the only way to avoid serious consequences for an adult. Next, we will look at the main causes and signs characteristic of herpes zoster, why it is important to get diagnosed and begin proper therapy.

What is shingles?

Shingles (herpes) is a viral skin disease that manifests itself as unilateral rashes and is accompanied by severe pain. The causative agent of the disease is the chickenpox virus - herpes zoster.

Herpes zoster affects the peripheral nerves in some areas of the skin, which leads to intoxication of the body, inflammation of the dorsal roots of the spinal cord and the appearance of a blistering rash. As a rule, this infection affects adults and children over the age of 10 years, and it develops only in those individuals who have had chickenpox.

Activation of the virus can be triggered by:

• severe stress;
• mental or physical fatigue;
• decreased immunity after viral and infectious diseases;
• the presence of malignant tumors.

The causative agent is a virus from the Herpes viridae family. It can cause two completely different clinical pathologies: chickenpox (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles). This virus is a nucleotide with an oval membrane, reaching a diameter of 30-50 nm. The most optimal temperature for its development and reproduction is 37 degrees Celsius.

Herpes practically does not affect children; the disease is mainly diagnosed in adults and the elderly. Moreover, when a patient with shingles comes into contact with a healthy child, the baby develops typical chickenpox.

Classification

The following forms of herpes zoster in adults are distinguished:

• The ocular form of manifestation leads to disease of the trigeminal ganglion. In this case, there is a danger to eye health.
• The disseminated form of manifestation is also called widespread. Develops with the appearance of rashes over the entire surface of the skin.
• Gangliocutaneous manifestation is the most common form. It has typical manifestations.
• Meningoencephalitic form - exacerbation of the virus occurs in a severe form. A type of manifestation of the virus initiates meningoencephalitis. The most dangerous manifestation of infection is fraught with serious consequences.
• The ear form manifests itself as rashes in the ear canal, and hearing may be lost.
• Gangrenous - with black scabs, particularly severe pain and the need for long-term treatment (the disease goes away after 3 months, scars remain on the skin);
• Generalized - with external manifestations characteristic of chickenpox, more often it occurs not in young people, but in older people.

The disease is divided into stages:

• the first 1-3 days – prodromal stage (appearance of symptoms characteristic of the disease);
• days 3-20 – acute stage;
• starting from the 20th day and up to three months – convalescence (the period of restoration of damaged tissues);
• stage of long-term consequences (can last up to three years).

Causes of occurrence in adults

The virus belongs to the category of neurodermatotropic, therefore it is capable of infecting epithelial cells of the skin and nervous system. All people who have had chickenpox or have been in contact with someone who has chickenpox have the virus. When the body's immunological resistance decreases, the virus wakes up and becomes active again.

Quite often, herpes zoster appears in patients exposed to various types of influences that affect the immune system. These include:

• leukemia,
• neoplasms,
• chemotherapy procedures,
• long-term use of immunosuppressants and corticosteroids.

Risk factors that provoke the development of this pathology include:

• pneumonia,
• tuberculosis,
• syphilis,
• meningitis,
• poisoning with alcohol, arsenic or mercury,
• sepsis,
• flu,
• cancer metastasis and HIV infection.

Most often, herpes zoster is diagnosed in older adults with a noticeable physiological decline in all body functions, including immune defense. However, the appearance of herpetic rashes on the body of a teenager cannot be ruled out.

These statistical results are due to the fact that in people over 50 years of age, the body’s defenses weaken significantly, and it is difficult to maintain control over the virus, which subsequently provokes its manifestation.

As a result of a decrease in a person’s immune reactivity under the influence of certain factors, the virus is activated, which causes inflammation mainly of the nerve intervertebral nodes and dorsal spinal roots, which manifests itself in the form of symptoms of herpes zoster.

Factors leading to a decrease in immune defense may be:

• general acute infectious diseases, hypothermia, hyperinsolation;
• pregnancy;
• diabetes mellitus or exacerbation of chronic diseases;
• sleep disturbances and prolonged neuropsychic stress;
• foci of chronic infections and intoxication of the body;
• long-term use of immunosuppressants, cytostatic and hormonal glucocorticoid drugs;
• HIV infection and cancer;
• carrying out radiotherapeutic procedures, chemotherapy.

Is shingles contagious to humans?

Shingles is contagious and it is important to understand what routes of transmission of a dangerous viral pathology exist.

The following methods of infection are possible:

1. By airborne droplets, in which the virus is localized in the mucous membranes of the carrier of the infection, from where it enters the air after coughing or sneezing. Subsequently, the virus remains in the form of an aerosol until a healthy person inhales contaminated air.
2. By contact, in which the virus enters the body of a healthy person after direct contact with the skin of an infected person.

How long is shingles contagious? Exactly as much as bubbles with liquid appear and burst on the skin. As soon as they crust over, you don’t have to worry about infection. The source of infection is the liquid that fills them, therefore, if a person with rashes touches them, and then touches objects accessible to other members of his environment, he exposes those around him to the risk of infection.

It should be taken into account that the virus that causes herpes zoster is very unstable; it is destroyed when exposed to solar insolation, disinfectants, and high temperature.

Most often, outbreaks are recorded in autumn and spring.

• In mild forms of the pathological process, skin nodules do not transform into vesicles.
• However, in severe forms of the disease, vesicular vesicles transform into ulcers, which after some time begin to ulcerate. In this case, shingles becomes protracted and lasts up to one and a half months.

Symptoms of herpes zoster in humans

With herpes zoster, a latent course of the disease is often observed, which means that viral particles are present in the nervous system, which, under unfavorable conditions of the external or internal environment, can be activated and lead to the multiplication of the virus and the appearance of further clinical manifestations. The incubation period can be long - several years may pass from the moment of infection to the appearance of the first symptoms.

After the virus is activated in the body, even before the first external signs of the disease appear, the patient begins to feel unwell, characteristic of the flu or a cold:

• headache,
• temperature increase,
• fever,
• chills,
• digestive disorders.

In areas of future rashes, tingling, itching and neuralgic pain appear. Often the pain becomes burning and unbearable, intensifying with movement and the slightest touch. The process spreads along the nerve trunks, intercostal branches and trigeminal nerves.

If the virus is activated in the facial nerve, paralysis occurs, the symptoms of which include:

• facial asymmetry;
• the patient cannot puff out his cheeks or show his teeth;
• a rash appears in the area of ​​the ear.

In the vast majority of clinical cases, shingles begins acutely. This means:

• an increase in body temperature of the order of up to 39 degrees, which is accompanied by the addition of general toxic reactions (in the form of chills, general malaise and headache).
• At the same time, the zone of innervation of the spinal ganglia (one or more of them) becomes covered with characteristic skin rashes, the appearance of which is also accompanied by certain sensations (pain, numbness, etc.).

Rash period. It begins after 2-4 days and depends on the form of the disease. Characteristic for each manifestation of the disease:

• the rashes initially look like pink spots up to 5 mm (see photo),
• after that, groups of small bubbles with liquid contents begin to form on them, initially transparent, after 3-4 days they become cloudy, sometimes mixed with blood.

in the photo: shingles from days 1 to 12

After several days, the contents of the blisters become cloudy, and the blisters themselves dry out and crust over. When the crust falls off, a red pigment remains on the skin. After the chain of processes ends, the rash may recur.

Localization of rashes + photo

The rashes are localized in the area of ​​the damaged nerve, this depends on which part of the nervous system has been “captured” by the virus. A few days later, a blistering rash appears at the site of the spot. The bubbles are small in diameter and the contents are usually transparent.

Most often, the rash appears in the following areas of the body:

• trigeminal nerve area on the face;
• between the ribs;
• upper and lower limbs;
• groin area.

As the rash appears, an increase in the lymph nodes on the patient’s body is observed.

A characteristic feature of herpes zoster is the unilateral localization of the rash, that is, papules appear on only one side of the body.

In an uncomplicated form, the duration is 3-4 weeks. Sometimes, in mild cases, in the absence of severe pain, herpes goes away in 12-14 days.

The final stage of shingles (the rash begins to shrink and dry out)

Symptoms for different forms of herpes zoster

Sometimes the disease gives an atypical clinical picture:

• Abortive form - there is no stage of formation of watery vesicles. Despite the absence of a skin rash, the pain is just as intense.
• Bullous form - vesicles increasing in size merge, forming blisters of large diameter.
• Hemorrhagic form - deep tissue destruction with damage to the skin capillaries leads to the filling of the blisters with blood. Healing occurs with the formation of scars and dimples on the skin.
• Gangrenous form - deep ulcers form in place of the vesicles. Healing is delayed, and eventually rough scars form in their place.

Doctor   Dmitry Sedykh

Characteristic signs of herpes zoster are blistering rashes on the skin, most often appearing along the line of the intercostal nerves. When this type of herpes appears, patients are interested in the contagiousness of the disease. It’s worth finding out in advance what ways the virus can spread, how to avoid getting infected from loved ones, and what to do if symptoms appear.

Usually, when the first signs appear, a person begins to wonder whether shingles is contagious to others. During certain periods of the development of the disease, you can become infected with the lichen virus through direct contact with an infected person or his things. However, there are several features of the spread and action of the causative agent of herpes zoster.

Blistering rashes of a shingles nature are a secondary manifestation of the varicella-zoster virus. When initially infected, it causes chickenpox. When the disease passes, the lichen virus continues to exist in the nerve cells without manifesting itself in any way. Only with secondary activation of varicella-zoster does a person develop shingles.

Transmission of the virus from a patient occurs only during the period when the bubbles formed on the body burst and fluid flows out of them. It contains an increased concentration of the pathogen. If the liquid gets on the skin of a healthy person, he is highly likely to get chickenpox.

Features of infection with the lichen virus:

1. If an adult has symptoms of the disease, he should not have contact with children who have not had chickenpox. In such cases, the risk of contracting shingles is 100%.
2. If you have minimal contact with the patient and do not use his things, the pathogen will not be able to enter the body of a healthy person.

Because there are many ways to transmit shingles, 80% of adults have varicella-zoster in the body in what is called “hibernation.” There are no signs of her presence. However, upon contact with a sick person, reinfection may occur. In this case, signs of shingles will appear.

Since shingles is a contagious disease, the patient should minimize contact with other people until recovery.

Transmission routes

It is not possible to become infected directly with shingles. The first stage of virus activation manifests itself as chickenpox. Shingles is a secondary disease that forms in the carrier’s body.

Herpes zoster is transmitted in several ways:

1. Contact. The pathogen is found in the host's body fluids, so it is transmitted from person to person through kissing and sexual intercourse.
2. Airborne. The virus is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person, even through conversation.
3. "Top down". During pregnancy or childbirth, the causative agent of herpes zoster can be transmitted to the baby from the mother.
4. Domestic. To become infected, it is enough to use the equipment of a virus carrier.

Most often, shingles is transmitted by contact. To become infected during a conversation, you need to be in the same room with the person for quite a long time. If herpes manifests itself during pregnancy, the woman should immediately consult a doctor.

Since the liquid flowing from the blisters contains the most pathogenic microorganisms, you should not touch the patient’s rash. The risk of contracting herpes from the moment the first signs of the disease appear until the formation of scar tissue is highest.

For treatment of herpes zoster, people turn to a dermatologist, an infectious disease specialist, and a neurologist, depending on the clinical manifestations. The virus does not tolerate environmental conditions well:

• heating;
• exposure to sunlight;
• processing of cleaning products.

Shingles is resistant to freezing.

Video answers:
2:04 - Causes of shingles.
3:52 - Is shingles contagious or not?
4:40 - How contagious is shingles.
5:06 - Incubation period for herpes zoster.

Who's at risk

The first risk group includes people who have not yet had chickenpox. Their bodies do not have antibodies to the pathogen, so upon contact with a sick person there is a high probability of infection.

The second category includes people with impaired protective properties of the body (with reduced immunity). Being around a sick person puts them at high risk of contracting an infection. The immunity of such people reacts to the pathogen too slowly and weakly, so the likelihood of painful symptoms of shingles appearing soon is very high.

Once in the human body, the herpes virus remains in a latent (hidden) state. It is activated under the influence of external factors and then causes disease. It is worth highlighting the main irritants that can stimulate the proliferation of the pathogen:

• hypothermia of the body - it is enough for the host of herpes to freeze for a rash to appear on the body within a few days;
• self-medication with drugs - with uncontrolled use of drugs, the body’s natural defenses are reduced, which will provoke the activation of varicella-zoster;
• chemotherapy;
• diabetes;
• old age – after 60 years;
• cancers affecting hematopoietic processes;
• severe stress and overwork.

People whose bodies are weakened after surgery are also at risk. The risk of developing shingles in a person with reduced immunity is quite high.

Since anyone can become infected with the virus even during a normal walk, preventive measures are designed to prevent its activation. The main ways to avoid the development of the disease:

• have a good rest;
• include sufficient amounts of vitamins, minerals and nutrients in the diet;
• harden;
• treat all diseases in a timely manner;
• minimize contact with people who have an open form of the disease.

Preventing the development of shingles is easier than treating it. To do this, you need to follow basic preventive measures.

To avoid becoming infected with shingles, you should not use the patient’s personal belongings, dishes and hygiene products. It is better for the infected person to be in a separate room.

How many days is herpes zoster contagious?

The incubation period for shingles can last decades. Once in the human body, the herpes virus may not manifest itself for a long time. Infection can occur at an early age. Herpes zoster is more dangerous for children than for adults, so the disease should not be left to chance.

Under favorable conditions, the virus moves through nerve tissues, reaching the end of the nerve. It then affects the area of ​​skin for which this nerve is responsible. So far, medicine has not formed an accurate picture of the transition of a pathogen from a latent state to a reactive one.

The period of increased risk of infection of others lasts from the moment the bubbles appear until the formation of crusts on the patient’s body. By touching the rash and then touching various objects, the infected person leaves some pathogenic microorganisms on the latter. This increases the risk of infecting others.

Stages of development of lichen:

1. The rashes vary depending on the severity of the patient's condition. At first they resemble small pink spots. The skin around them looks healthy.
2. With the typical development of the process, just a day after the spots appear, bubbles filled with a clear liquid appear. It is during this period that the patient becomes infectious to others. After 3 days the liquid becomes cloudy. The rashes appear in groups, with intervals of several days. It seems that the rashes are spreading throughout the body, creating a kind of “belt”.
3. 2-3 weeks after the spots appear, the pimples dry out and crusts form in their place. The drying area turns pale. In place of the fallen off crusts, you can notice slight pigmentation.

With a mild form of inflammation, the symptoms can only be neurological in nature - the patient feels pain, but no rash appears. Such signs characterize.

Only after the crusts appear does a person cease to be a threat to others. After a few weeks, the skin may still peel. After a month, the spots begin to fade.

At the first stage of development of lichen, headaches may occur. Symptoms of the second stage include hypersensitivity of the affected skin area, diarrhea and vomiting.

Shingles, known as herpes, is characterized by a rash and pain. Usually occurs in spring and autumn.

The disease mainly affects people over 40 years of age. In elderly patients, the process is difficult, so it is important to start treatment immediately.

With herpes zoster, the incubation period can last several years. The first unpleasant sensations appear a week before the rash forms.

It is easiest to make an accurate diagnosis if there is redness and small blisters. They begin to burst over time. These areas of skin become crusty and gradually heal. In general, the disease lasts for 3-4 weeks.

Sometimes patients do not develop blisters. In this case, it is difficult to determine the cause of itching and pain.

Kinds

Experts identify several forms of herpes zoster:

Generalized. The rash can form on any area, including mucous membranes. Ringworm is sometimes confused with chickenpox, although in the presence of a cancerous tumor or a weakened immune system, such a disease can develop as a complication.

Bullous. Several bubbles merge into one. When the large bubble dries out, a dark spot remains in that area. This is a scab made up of dead tissue.

Abortive. Patients do not experience pain or blisters. The rash goes away very quickly.

Visceral. One or more internal organs are damaged. In this case, immediate hospitalization is necessary.

In children, shingles occurs only when infected with the Varicella-zoster virus and with a weakened immune system.

The source of infection can be anyone with shingles or chickenpox. Symptoms appear several hours after infection.

Women who have the virus in their blood often get shingles during pregnancy. In this case, there are practically no symptoms, which is why it is sometimes difficult to establish the cause of a missed pregnancy or miscarriage. Surviving babies may experience visual, hearing, and nervous system impairments.

Contagiousness

The virus contained in the discharge from the blisters is not dangerous for those who have previously had chickenpox. For everyone else shingles is contagious.

Adults and children who come into contact with someone who is sick can become infected with shingles and chickenpox. It is worth noting that lichen is contagious during the period of healing of old blisters and the formation of new ones.

When all the bubbles burst and a crust forms in their place, the virus will stop spreading. At this stage, shingles is no longer contagious.

Causes and symptoms

Shingles is caused by the herpes virus, which is believed to be the causative agent of chickenpox. In patients who have had chickenpox, the virus “hibernates” in the nerve cells. Over time, it can enter the blood again, leading to shingles.

So far, scientists do not know how to identify the virus during hibernation. It is known that people of retirement age and patients with oncology are susceptible to its activation.

Reasons why the virus “awakens”:

• Decreased immunity associated with physical injury, severe stress, and certain medications.
• Hypothermia.
• Various infectious and oncological diseases.
• HIV infection, AIDS.
• Conducting radiation therapy.

Early signs of shingles include fever, chills, fatigue and headache. Also, some patients complain of burning and mild itching. This period lasts 1-4 days, and in adults it can last for a week.

Photo

In places where the nervous tissue is damaged, pink itchy lumps appear, in place of which vesicles with serous contents form. They are usually localized on the face and chest.

In some cases, enlarged lymph nodes are observed, and children may experience inflammation of the respiratory tract.

Treatment

If you suspect shingles, you should visit a dermatologist. An experienced doctor will make a diagnosis taking into account the patient’s complaints and test results.

To get rid of shingles, you need to follow the recommendations:

In general, treatment is aimed at preventing the spread of infection, eliminating pain and reducing intoxication of the body.

Medication

Treatment of lichen should begin in the first days of the disease, which will help avoid complications. It is worth remembering that only a doctor should prescribe medications, because they have many contraindications.

For herpes zoster, it is necessary to take antiviral drugs. This is especially true for older patients and people with damaged trigeminal nerves.

You should take acyclovir or famciclovir three times a day for a week immediately after the rash appears. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed for a maximum of 5-7 days.

All bubbles and crusts are treated with antiseptic compounds - a solution of potassium permanganate or brilliant green. You can replace them with ointments to treat herpes rash. They will help avoid secondary infection.

To relieve itching, ice from chamomile infusion is applied to the affected areas. Ointments containing antibiotics are also used for these purposes. Antihistamines will help relieve swelling.

In some cases, additional research into the state of the immune system is required. If the patient's immunity is weakened, it is necessary to take appropriate medications.

In case of severe pain, the doctor will select analgesics. It is also recommended to take vitamins A and B. When the acute period of the disease passes, physiotherapeutic procedures may be prescribed.

In severe cases of lichen, complex treatment is necessary, including:

• Antiviral drugs.
• Painkillers and anticonvulsants.
• Analgesics.
• Immunomodulators, namely amixin, immunomax, ferrovir or allomedine.
• Vitamin complexes.
• Antiseptics for local treatment.
• Drugs that accelerate the process of epithelization.

Folk remedies

Any folk remedies for herpes zoster can only be used as additional therapy. It is necessary to first consult with your doctor, as there is a possibility of serious complications.

Popular remedies that help get rid of pain and itching:

• Baths with sulfurous water and added salt.
• Compresses based on salt and bread, which must be applied to the affected areas twice a day for half an hour.
• Treatment of leather with natural bitter almond oil.
• Compresses from flaxseed, which must be boiled in milk with the addition of butter in a 1:1 ratio;
• Compresses made from aloe juice and burdock leaves, which are poured with boiling water and left for 12 hours.

Nutrition is an important factor in the effective treatment of shingles. This disease often occurs in older people with weakened immune systems. As we age, the absorption of vitamins and minerals deteriorates. Therefore, it is necessary to take special vitamin complexes and review the diet.

Eat dairy products, lean meats, and foods rich in unsaturated fatty acids (olive oil, salmon and other fish) daily.

For drinks, you should prefer green tea without additives.

In the autumn-spring period, the diet should be as healthy as possible. It is necessary to eat citrus fruits, legumes, carrots, zucchini, and pumpkin. Any types of nuts should also be included in the diet.