4th generation remedies for herpes zoster. Latest generation anti-herpes tablets and their analogues. Which brand of herpes remedy to choose?

Herpes zoster (according to ICD 10) is a viral infectious disease. When it occurs, it is accompanied by pain and looks like a rash. Mostly occurs in older people, in autumn and winter. The cause and causative agent is the chickenpox virus - herpes zoster.
At a young age, when the body encounters chickenpox, it does not disappear after treatment, but goes into a latent state and hides in the nerve cells of the dorsal horns of the spinal cord, ganglia of the autonomic nervous system, and cranial nerves. The dorsal roots are damaged.

In this article, we will look at shingles and its treatment in adults using effective medications and ointments at home.

What it is?

The herpes zoster virus first enters the body during chickenpox. Elimination of chickenpox rashes does not mean the death of the infectious agent. The virus is kept in a weakened state by the immune system and remains in the body constantly after chickenpox.

Shingles is an external manifestation of the herpes virus activated against the background of decreased immunity. The disease is registered only in people who have had chickenpox!

Activations Herpes zoster is promoted by:

• hypothermia,
• previous acute respiratory infection or influenza (any other disease leading to a sharp weakening of the immune system),
• stress,
• visiting a solarium or prolonged exposure to the sun,
• oncology and radiation therapy,
• severe infections - HIV,
• long-term use of corticosteroids and treatment with immunosuppressants,
• pregnancy (often the disease occurs without skin rashes and severe pain, but has a negative effect on the development of the fetus).

Epidemiological factors of herpes zoster

Herpes zoster is more common in adults than in children and adolescents.

Attention. It should be noted that the incidence of herpes zoster directly depends on age.

In patients under fifteen years of age, the chance of developing herpes zoster is about five percent, and the chance of developing herpes zoster in older people increases to sixty to seventy percent.

The increase in the incidence of herpes zoster is explained by the natural decrease in the level of immunity with age.

Unlike chickenpox, this disease is not seasonal and is recorded all year round.

For reference. Herpes zoster is contagious, but its index of contagiousness (infectiousness) is quite low. The main danger patients pose is for weakened patients, immunodeficient patients and people who have not previously had chickenpox.

Patients with this infection are contagious for one to two days before the rash appears and until the scabs dry out and fall off.

Transmission of the virus can be carried out by airborne droplets (the virus is contained in nasopharyngeal mucus) and contact (when blisters on the skin rupture, a large amount of virus is released into the environment.

Classification

Clinical forms of herpes zoster can be as follows:

• gangliocutaneous form;
• eye and ear forms;
• necrotic form (gangrenous);
• a form of herpes zoster when it affects the autonomic ganglia;
• meningoencephalitic form;
• disseminated form;
• abortive form.

We will consider all these forms of herpes zoster and the symptoms characteristic of their course below, but first we will consider the main type of course of this disease.

Herpes zoster - consequences

Two to three weeks from the onset of the disease (after the typical clinical picture subsides), postherpetic neuralgia develops.

The main symptom of neuralgia is paroxysmal unbearable pain, intensifying at night. Subsidence and complete disappearance of pain occurs within two to three months.

Chronic postherpetic neuralgia can be observed in immunodeficient patients.

In complicated cases, the prognosis of the disease and its consequences depend on the severity of damage to nerve tissue.

Attention. Patients with herpetic eye lesions may develop corneal ulcers, leading to decreased vision, even blindness.

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.

What is herpes zoster

For reference. Herpes zoster is an acute infectious pathology with a cyclic course, resulting from the reactivation of herpetic viruses (varicella zoster), which latently persist in the tissues of the spinal ganglia.
Symptoms of the disease are manifested by the appearance of feverish and intoxication symptoms, signs of tissue damage to the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system, as well as specific damage to the skin.

Herpes zoster is caused by the same pathogen as chickenpox. Upon first contact with varicella-zoster viruses, the patient develops chickenpox. Subsequently, herpes viruses circulate throughout life in the tissues of the spinal ganglia and, in the presence of favorable factors, are activated, causing herpes zoster (the disease is also called herpes zoster).

For reference. Herpes zoster is rare in children. The exception is cases of infection in patients with reduced immunity or immunodeficiency.

Herpes zoster according to ICD10 is classified as B02. Additional code is also indicated:

• 7 – for disseminated forms of infection (B02.7);
• 8 – for complicated forms;
• 9 – for uncomplicated types of herpes zoster, etc.

Symptoms of herpes zoster

It is impossible not to notice the symptoms of shingles in an adult. The clinical picture is characterized by an acute onset, with severe pain and severe burning at the site of the lesion.

The disease affects an area of ​​the human body most often on one side.

Zones of localization of herpes zoster can be:

1. Genitals;
2. Buttocks:
3. Lower and upper limbs;
4. Intercostal areas;
5. Face (part of it along the triangular nerve);
6. Lower jaw;
7. Back of the head;

If herpes zoster affects the facial part, then the rash will be located along the ternary or facial nerve. If an area of ​​the body is affected, the rash will be located along the spinal nerves. This fact is explained by the high accumulation of the virus in the nerve ganglia, in 11 pairs of cranial nerves, in the dorsal horns in each half of the spinal cord. Therefore, cutaneous manifestations are localized along the involved nerve.

Experts distinguish three periods, each of which has its own symptoms of herpes zoster:

Onset of the disease

This period is called prodromal. It is accompanied by general malaise, psychovegetative (neurological) pain, which can have varying intensity. The duration of the initial period can be from 48 hours to 4 days.

In parallel, the patient experiences the following symptoms:

1. Feeling weak;
2. Headache;
3. Increase in body temperature to subfebrile levels (fever is extremely rare, but does occur);
4. Chills;
5. Disorders of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and associated dyspeptic disorders;
6. Pain, burning, itching, severe tingling in the area of ​​the body or face where rashes will subsequently appear;
7. As symptoms increase, the lymph nodes swell and become painful and hard to the touch;
8. Disturbances in the process of emptying the bladder are observed in severe cases of the disease.

When body temperature drops, the symptoms caused by it in the form of intoxication are significantly weakened.

Period of rash

The time when rashes characteristic of shingles appear. The symptoms and nature of the rash depend on the severity of the inflammatory process. At first, the rashes look like pockets of pink spots 2-5 mm in size, between which there are areas of healthy skin.

• In the typical form of the disease, the next day, small, closely grouped vesicles and vesicles with transparent serous contents form in their place, which becomes cloudy after 3-4 days.
• In severe gangrenous form of herpes, the contents of the vesicles may be mixed with blood and black in color. Herpetic rashes have a wave-like course, as with chickenpox, that is, fresh rashes with vesicular elements appear at intervals of several days. The bubbles seem to crawl from one place to another, encircling the body, hence the name of this disease.
• In mild forms of the inflammatory process, the transformation of skin nodules into pustules does not form and their ulceration does not occur, and the manifestation of herpes is also possible only of a neurological nature - pain without a rash, otherwise it is also called herpetic neuralgia and is often mistaken for manifestations of intercostal neuralgia, osteochondrosis or heart pain. And therefore, inadequate treatment may be prescribed.

Crust formation period

After two weeks (maximum 1.5 weeks), yellow to brown crusts form in the place where the rash was previously. The places where the vesicles were located lose their rich color.

Gradually, the crusts fall off, after which areas of pigmentation remain on the skin.

Shingles pain

A person always suffers from severe pain that occurs even from a slight touch to the skin. This is due to the fact that the virus is localized in nerve cells, disrupting their work and many times increasing the sensitivity of nerve endings. The pain that a person experiences can be compared to burn pain. They are especially aggravated when water gets into the affected areas. In this regard, scientists have not yet come to a common decision - whether it is worth taking a bath for shingles.

Some doctors are of the opinion that it is better to avoid water procedures, others believe that baths with the addition of sea salt help, and others recommend taking only a shower, after which it is enough to simply get the body wet.

When describing the nature of the pain, patients indicate that it can be dull, burning or boring, some people compare it to the passage of an electric current through the affected area. Pain tends to increase after minor mechanical or thermal effects. They can continue to bother a person even after the rash has completely gone away. This happens to about 15% of all people who have had shingles.

The reason for residual pain is that viruses have destroyed nerve tissue, and it will take some time for them to recover. Most often, postherpetic neuralgia in old age can persist for several months, and in young people it disappears a maximum of 10 days after the rash disappears.

Features of herpes zoster

After activation of the varicella zoster viruses, ganglioneuritis develops, tissue damage to the intervertebral ganglia and CN (cranial nerves), as well as damage to the dorsal spinal roots.

Tissues of the autonomic ganglia, internal organs, brain and spinal cord may also be affected.

After multiplying in the tissues of the ganglia, the viruses spread along the nerve trunks and penetrate the skin cells. In the skin, under the influence of viruses, changes of an inflammatory-degenerative nature develop, manifested by specific rashes located along the nerve trunks.

For reference. Externally, the skin rashes with herpes zoster are identical to the rashes with chickenpox. The appearance of a herpetic rash with herpes zoster is due to the ability of the pathogen to evade the body's immune response.

A specific feature of herpes zoster is that the rash does not extend beyond the innervation zone of the affected nerve. That is, herpes zoster on the face is located strictly in the zone of innervation of the trigeminal nerve, etc.

It should also be noted that the rashes are unilateral.

Extension of rashes beyond the innervation of the affected nerve can be observed only in the generalized form of the disease (can develop in weakened and immunodeficient patients with hematogenous spread of viruses throughout the body).

Attention. In isolated cases, if the virus does not spread beyond the ganglia, herpes zoster can occur only with symptoms of damage to the nervous system, without the development of a specific rash.

Damage to nerve tissue can occur as ganglioneuritis, amyotrophic radiculoplexitis, myelic syndromes, meningoradiculoneuritis or serous meningitis.

Atypical forms

The typical course of herpes zoster is described above. 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.

Atypical forms

There are forms of herpes zoster, in which the symptoms may be atypical for this disease. These include:

• Abortive form - occurs without severe pain, inflamed spots appear on the skin, but a rash does not form. Treatment is quick and without complications;
• Hemorrhagic - this form is characterized by blistering rashes filled with blood. In the affected area of ​​the epidermis, sensitivity decreases, numbness and tingling occurs, the skin is very itchy;
• Bullous form - clinical manifestations of this form are manifested by large blisters with jagged edges;
• Gangrenous (necrotic) - in place of the papules, purulent ulcers are formed, covered with a black scab. Deep tissue damage occurs, necrotic processes develop when a bacterial infection is attached;
• Generalized (disseminated) form - occurs in patients with immunodeficiency and cancer. In this form of the disease, the rash covers the entire body on both sides, affecting the mucous membranes, internal organs and brain.

About 40% of patients with cancer of the lymphatic system suffer from a generalized form of the disease, in 10% of cases they develop meningoencephalitis, hepatitis, viral pneumonia and other severe complications.

With any form of this disease, damage to the ganglia of the autonomic nervous system can occur, which can cause atypical symptoms:

• bowel dysfunction;
• urinary retention;
• chilliness of the limbs;
• pronounced venous pattern;
• drooping eyelids;
• sunken eyeball;
• constriction of the pupil.

Consequences

• In severe cases of the disease, there may be facial paralysis or other paralysis due to damage to the motor nerves.
• Disorders of the internal organs, such as pneumonia, diseases of the genitourinary system, and duodenum, are also possible.
• If the eyes are damaged, optic neuritis may occur and visual acuity will significantly decrease.
• With a very dangerous encephalitic form of herpes zoster, a complication is meningoencephalitis - a serious disease, most often leading to disability.
• When a bacterial infection is added, purulent processes aggravate the patient’s condition, and the recovery process after the disease is delayed for months.

The prognosis for mild forms of the disease is favorable; usually there are no relapses or serious consequences of herpes zoster. However, in weakened people after a severe inflammatory process, further exacerbations are possible.

Consequences and complications

At a young age, a person who is faced with herpes zoster most often will not experience any consequences or complications of the disease. It will end with complete recovery for the patient and the disappearance of all symptoms.

However, if the functioning of the immune system is impaired, then serious health problems may develop:

• Meningoencephalitis is another possible complication of herpes zoster. If the patient does not die as a result of meningoencephalitis, then he becomes disabled.
• There is a possibility of developing dysfunction of the duodenum, abdominal muscles, genitourinary system (bladder sphincter), lungs (pneumonia).
• The disease can affect the functioning of the spinal cord and brain, since the virus has the ability to actively multiply there. If a transition occurs to brain tissue, they are subject to destruction, which can lead to paralysis of the lower and upper extremities, and paralysis of the facial nerve. In addition, there is a threat of respiratory failure and death of the patient.
• If the virus affects the organs of vision, optic neuritis may develop. This threatens the formation of glaucoma, damage to the cornea and complete blindness of the patient.
• If the disease is accompanied by a bacterial infection, the person’s condition worsens and the recovery process is significantly delayed.

As a rule, complications occur only in people with weakened immune systems. If the disease is mild, it does not threaten relapses and passes quickly.

Diagnostics

Laboratory tests play a very important role, as they make it possible to determine with 100% accuracy which virus is the source of the problem.

Tests for herpes zoster:

• Polymerase chain reaction.
• Immunofluorescence analysis.
• Serological method.
• Lymphoblastic transformation test (for babies in the womb).

One of the most common tests is the polymerase chain reaction, for which the contents of the vial and the patient’s blood are taken. The analysis allows you to identify the exact type of herpes virus through the isolation of its DNA and antibodies to the virus.

Traditional recipes for internal use

Aloe juice

1. Mix 250 ml of freshly squeezed agave juice with the same amount of cooled boiling water.
2. Add 20-30 g of sugar to a glass and stir thoroughly until smooth.
3. Close the jar tightly and leave the mixture for 14 days in a cool place out of direct sunlight.
4. After two weeks, 100 ml of good vodka is poured into the container; alcohol cannot be used.
5. Take 15 ml three times a day before main meals.

Honey drink

1. Crush one clove of garlic.
2. Dilute 30 g of honey in 250 ml of warm water.
3. Add 15 ml of agave juice to the resulting liquid.
4. For a better effect, you can add 15 ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice, but under no circumstances replace it with citric acid.
5. Drink on an empty stomach 20 minutes before your first meal.

Tincture of calendula

1. 30 g of dried inflorescences of the plant are poured with 500 ml of vodka.
2. Having tightly sealed the glass bottle, it is placed in a cool place without direct sunlight for 14 days.
3. Be sure to shake the container several times a day.
4. After two weeks, open the bottle and strain the grounds.
5. Pour the resulting tincture into small glass containers.
6. They should also be placed in a cool, dark place for 31 days.
7. Take strictly 10 ml three times a day for one month every six months.

It is worth understanding that before starting therapy, you should definitely visit the office of a dermatologist and allergist. There are cases when lichen can be confused with other dangerous skin rashes. Only a competent doctor will be able to see the true cause of the pathology and, if necessary, prescribe a scraping.

Shingles and pregnancy

The occurrence of shingles in pregnant women is quite an alarming signal. Often it is pregnancy that becomes a predisposing factor that provokes the reactivation of the herpes zoster virus, which has been “dormant” for a long time in the body of the expectant mother.

Very often this disease becomes the cause of intrauterine infection. As a result, children are born with signs of severe damage to the nervous system or brain. Newborns may be diagnosed with congenital blindness or deafness. The possibility of miscarriage, stillbirth, or death of the newborn cannot be ruled out.

Herpes zoster - causes

The reason for the development of the infectious process is the reactivation of varicella zoster.

Risk factors contributing to the reactivation of the pathogen and the development of the disease are:

• age-related decrease in immunity;
• conditions after organ transplantation;
• long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs, treatment with glucocorticoid hormones, use of cytostatic drugs;
• the patient has leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis, malignant neoplasms, congenital and acquired immunodeficiency;
• decreased immunity after stress, hypothermia, infectious diseases;
• injuries;
• alcohol abuse;
• vitamin deficiency, exhaustion, nutritional deficiency, etc.

For reference. Recurrent and generalized herpes zoster occurs mainly in patients with various immunodeficiency conditions.

Pathogenesis of the development of herpes zoster

For reference. Herpes zoster is a secondary endogenous infection. That is, the viruses that cause this disease persist in the nerve ganglia of patients who have had chickenpox (chickenpox).

Viruses are in latent (hidden) form, however, after exposure to provoking factors, the viruses are activated and lead to the development of herpes zoster.

The time intervals between the primary infection (chickenpox) and the onset of herpes zoster vary from person to person. The disease can develop over several months, years, etc.

Attention. In patients with normal immunity, viruses can remain in an inactive latent form throughout their lives.

Herpes zoster rarely recurs after treatment.

How to treat shingles in adults

Most cases of shingles in adults resolve on their own, even without treatment. However, effective treatment exists and can significantly relieve the symptoms of the disease and also prevent complications.

The goals of treatment for Herpes zoster are:

1. Speed ​​up recovery;
2. Reduce pain;
3. Prevent complications;
4. Reduce the likelihood of developing postherpetic neuralgia.
5. Drug treatment is necessary for people with a high risk of complications or a protracted course of the disease: people with immunodeficiencies, patients
6. over 50 years old. The benefit of antiviral therapy in healthy and young people has not been proven.

Uncomplicated cases are treated at home (outpatient). Hospitalization is indicated for all people with suspected disseminated process, with damage to the eyes and brain.

Painkillers

Pain relief is one of the key points in the treatment of herpes zoster. Adequate pain relief makes it possible to breathe normally, move and reduce psychological discomfort. In the United States, narcotic analgesics such as oxycodone are used for pain relief.

Non-narcotic analgesics are used:

• Dexketoprofen
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Ketorolac
• Ketoprofen

For post-herpetic neuralgia, capsaicin-based products are effective. The drug of choice for relieving severe pain and preventing post-zosteric neuralgia is amantadine sulfate due to its virostatic properties and the ability to block peripheral NMDA receptors at the stage of pain impulse transmission.

Antiviral agents

Acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir are used to treat shingles. Valacyclovir is a metabolic precursor of acyclovir and is completely converted into it by liver enzymes. The acyclovir molecule has the ability to integrate into viral DNA, thus stopping its replication and multiplication of viral particles. Famciclovir is transformed in the body into penciclovir and acts similarly.

The effectiveness and safety of these drugs has been proven by numerous studies. When starting therapy within 72 hours from the appearance of the first rash, they can reduce the severity of pain, reduce the duration of the disease and the likelihood of postherpetic neuralgia. Famciclovir and valacyclovir have a more convenient regimen than acyclovir, but they are less studied and several times more expensive.

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants (anticonvulsants) are commonly used for epilepsy, but they also have the ability to reduce neuropathic pain. For Herpes zoster, some of them can be used, such as gabapentin and pregabalin.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroid medications reduce inflammation and itching. Some studies have shown their ability, in combination with antiviral agents, to reduce symptoms of mild to moderate forms of the disease.

Despite these data, corticosteroids have not gained acceptance for the treatment of herpes zoster due to safety reasons. Currently, these drugs are not recommended for use in this disease.

What else can I do for treatment at home?

When treating shingles at home, it is important to pay attention to the treatment of the rash. However, the use of ointments is not recommended. Antiseptics must be applied in liquid form. Chlorhexedine is best suited for this. It can be used in any period of the disease. The product does not cause any discomfort.

In addition to treating rashes, we must not forget about personal hygiene measures. It is necessary to take a shower daily. However, detergents and washcloths should not be used on the affected areas of the body. It is better to simply rinse the affected areas with running water at room temperature. It is not recommended to use cold or hot water.

Healing of shingles in a person and its treatment with medications will not be effective without selecting the right clothing. It is best to choose natural materials - cotton or linen. Do not wear tight or tight-fitting underwear - it can cause irritation and lead to the appearance of blisters on adjacent areas of the skin.

Which doctor should I contact?

Since shingles is a manifestation of an exacerbation of a herpetic infection, if it occurs, you can contact an infectious disease specialist. In addition, a dermatologist will help with treatment. If complications develop, the patient is consulted by a neurologist or ophthalmologist.

Vitamin therapy and diet

Also, for shingles, it is recommended to take the following vitamins to strengthen the immune system:

• Vitamin A;
• Vitamin E;
• Vitamin C.

These vitamins, being antioxidants, reduce the ability of cells to respond to inflammation and also help increase the body's defenses.

• B vitamins.

Vitamins from this group improve epithelial regeneration, participate in the formation of antibodies, as well as in all metabolic processes.

It should also be taken into account that during treatment, a patient with herpes zoster is recommended to have a gentle diet rich in nutrients, vitamins and microelements. It is recommended to boil or steam food, and you should also reduce the consumption of salty, fatty and fried foods.

• dairy products (milk, kefir, butter, cottage cheese);
• vegetables (beets, broccoli, carrots, eggplants, zucchini, pumpkin, tomatoes, peppers, onions);
• white meat;
• seafood (salmon, pike perch, herring);
• nuts (peanuts, pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cashews);
• fruits (grapes, apricots, apples, kiwis, plums, citrus fruits);
• cereals (oatmeal, wheat, barley);
• legumes (peas, beans);
• green tea, tea with rosehip or raspberry.

Symptoms and phases of the disease

Initially, it is almost impossible to track the moment when the virus became active. It can methodically and secretly corrode the myelin sheath of nerve endings for several years and “shoot” an obvious clinical picture in one moment. In some cases, on the contrary, symptoms develop rapidly. The main role here is influenced by the state of the patient’s immunity.

1. The first sign and harbinger of an incipient pathological process is always acute pain in the area where the virus is localized. It is neuralgic in nature and difficult to eliminate. Many patients compare its intensity and severity with pain from a burn or fracture. Unfortunately, this symptom has a long course and significantly complicates the life of the sick person. 2. Along with neuralgic signs, the prodromal stage may be accompanied by symptoms of a general deterioration in health: headache, chills, weakness, low-grade fever, itching or tingling sensation in places where the skin form of the disease will subsequently appear. These signs accompany the process of the awakened virus moving along the nerve fiber. 3. Having reached the end of the nerve process, the harmful agent attacks the skin cells. Thus, the disease enters the active phase of development. During this period, characteristic herpetic eruptions appear on the skin above the projection of the main base of the virus, which are small itchy blisters filled with liquid. The period from the appearance of the harbingers of the disease to the appearance of the rash is, on average, 3-5 days. 4. A distinctive feature of herpes zoster is that the herpetic rash is localized unilaterally. It does not always appear on the lower back; it can protrude above the ribs, along the branches of the trigeminal nerve on the face, on the upper back. But it always reflects exactly the place where it hid from the immune system after chickenpox, and the rash corresponds to the location of the nerve fiber under the skin. 5. External herpetic tissue lesions in shingles slowly spread across the skin. At first it is a vesicular weeping rash, which after 7-10 days becomes covered with a scab, dries up and disappears. 6. Primary healed manifestations of herpes are not a signal of recovery. The disease occurs in waves and can subside and flare up over a period of 3 weeks or more. 7. Severe pain accompanies all periods of exacerbation of herpes zoster; it persists after the ulcers have healed for a long time (weeks and months). This symptom represents the clinical picture of the postherpetic neuralgic phase of the disease. Damaged nerve endings have a longer regeneration period compared to other tissues. Pain persists especially long in older people, since in old age the body’s ability to heal itself is significantly reduced.

Herpes zoster has a fairly specific clinical picture, therefore, in most cases, it does not cause difficulties in making a diagnosis.

Is it possible to get sick again?

When the varicella zoster virus enters the human body, it causes chickenpox (varicella).

However, after recovery, this virus is not eliminated, but remains in the human body in a latent state. This virus lurks asymptomatically in nerve cells in the dorsal roots of the spinal cord. Activation of the virus occurs when the body is exposed to negative factors that contribute to a decrease in immunity. In this case, the disease recurs, only not in the form of chickenpox, but in the form of herpes zoster. As a rule, re-occurrence of shingles is not observed in the future. In patients with normal health, relapse of herpes zoster is observed in two percent of cases.

In ten percent of people, a relapse of herpes zoster is observed in the presence of the following pathologies:

• HIV infection;
• AIDS;
• oncological diseases;
• diabetes;
• lymphocytic leukemia

In this regard, to reduce the risk of relapse of the disease, as well as to prevent the development of herpes zoster, a vaccine against the Varicella-zoster virus was released in 2006. This vaccine showed good results, reducing the risk of developing the disease by 51%.

The purpose of administering the vaccine is to create artificial active immunity against the Varicella-zoster virus.

Pathogenesis

Infection is possible from a person who has herpes zoster or chickenpox. The routes of transmission of the virus are airborne droplets, contact, and the transplacental route is also possible. The virus is neurodermatotropic, that is, it can infect cells of the nervous system and skin epithelium. Initially or after chickenpox, the virus penetrates through the skin and mucous membranes, then through the circulatory and lymphatic systems into the intervertebral nodes and dorsal roots of the spinal cord, where it can remain latent for a long time, like the related herpes simplex virus.

Activation of the infection occurs when the immunological resistance of the body decreases. The most common causes of the onset of the disease:

• taking drugs that reduce immunity;
• chronic stress and exhausting work;
• local hypothermia;
• oncological diseases (lymphogranulomatosis, malignant tumors);
• consequences of radiation therapy;
• patients with HIV infection in the stage of transition to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS);
• organ and bone marrow transplantation.

Predisposing factors:

• persons over 55 years of age;
• pregnant women;
• after long-term treatment with antibiotics, cytostatics, glucocorticosteroids.

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, in contrast to chickenpox, mainly the neurotropic properties of the virus come to the fore.

Prevention

There is no specific prevention of herpes virus disease. It can only consist of maintaining the natural human immune system and increasing the body's resistance.

This is facilitated by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, giving up bad habits, an active physical regime, following the rules of a healthy diet, adequate sleep, hardening, walks in the fresh air, avoiding the aggressive influence of ultraviolet rays, and a harmonious psycho-emotional state of a person.

Treatment and its features

The best treatment option is the use of traditional and classical medicine. If for some reason treatment with traditional medications is not possible, you can use home recipes for internal and local use at the same time. They do not give side effects if the patient is not allergic to the constituent components, they are accessible and provide quick results. During therapy, it is worth adjusting your diet, eliminating bad habits, and engaging in physical activity.

Immunomodulators

Shingles mostly affects older patients over the age of 50. In older people, the strength of their own immunity decreases. This provokes the activation of the virus. Patients note the appearance of herpetic rashes after:

• hypothermia;
• severe stress;
• lack of sleep;
• a recent viral or infectious disease.

Hence the conclusion: the patient should take drugs that restore the normal functioning of the immune system. These are interferon-based medications:

• "Cycloferon";
• "Viferon";
• "Arbidol".

They stimulate the production of macrophages and leukocytes (immune cells). Medicines reduce the likelihood of exacerbation of chronic diseases, which can be provoked by a virus. They fight intoxication and weakness.

Another drug is Isoprinosine. It restores the functioning of protective cells and increases the body's resistance.

Attention to those who suffer from autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, glomerulonephritis)! Prescribing immunomodulators is not advisable, as it can intensify the manifestations of the underlying disease. Defender cells will increase activity, opposing their own body.

Immunomodulatory substances

Herpes zoster must also be treated with immunomodulatory medications. They are prescribed in addition to antiviral treatment, and their action is aimed at inhibiting the vital activity of the zoster virus.

Since the task of such medications is to artificially stimulate the patient’s immune cells, they must be prescribed only in accordance with the indications and used according to the specified scheme.

Drugs in this group can be natural or synthetic. Both of them actively use herpes zoster to treat the disease. When treating pathologies caused by herpes viruses, the following have a good effect:

1. "Lavomax" is a medicine based on the active element tilorone, which is obtained as a result of the synthesis of interferon. The product is produced in tablet form and is contraindicated during lactation, pregnancy and under the age of 18 years. Negative phenomena that occur during administration are insignificant. These are dyspeptic disorders, allergies and short-term chills.
2. “Proteflazid” is a medicine in the form of drops, which is based on flavonoids from wild cereals that can suppress the DNA of viruses. The medication not only improves local immunity, but also has antioxidant properties and helps eliminate lipid oxidation products. The product should be used with caution during pregnancy. Contraindications to it include peptic ulcer of the gastrointestinal tract during an exacerbation and sensitivity to the components.

"Amiksin"

This drug for the treatment of herpes zoster in adults and children belongs to the category of antiviral medications. It is a fairly effective synthetic inducer that stimulates the natural synthesis in the body of interferons belonging to the alpha, beta and gamma types. The main active element of Amiksina is tiporon. Hepatocytes (liver cells), granulocytes (white blood cells), T-lymphocytes (thymus gland cells) and intestinal epithelial cells respond to its entry into the body.

When the medication enters the body, they begin to actively produce interferons, the maximum amount of which is produced within 24 hours. The drug has immunomodulatory and antiviral properties. Its use is effective in the treatment of many infections of viral origin, including herpes viruses, influenza viruses, respiratory infections, and hepatitis viruses. The antiviral effect of the drug is due to its ability to inhibit the reproduction of pathogens by inhibiting the translation of virus proteins in infected cells.

The drug "Amiksin" for herpes zoster is prescribed according to the following scheme: the first 2 days - 1 tablet, then - 1 tablet once every two days. In total, during a course of therapy the patient should take 10-20 tablets, depending on the severity of the pathological process.

Drugs

To speed up recovery, the doctor will prescribe medications for oral and external use. To suppress the replication of the herpes virus, the following drugs are prescribed:

The disease can be treated with colloidal silver preparations.
To suppress the vital activity of the pathogen, colloidal silver is used, which is taken orally in courses. Thanks to its unique action, the drug destroys the protective barrier of the virus, which is no longer able to protect itself, as a result of which it soon dies. This is homeopathic therapy, so it is better to discuss the advisability of its use with your doctor.

To speed up the healing of affected areas, ointments are used: zinc, sulfur, Alpizarin, Interferon. To disinfect the rash and prevent a bacterial infection from joining, you can use Miramistin in the form of a spray or ointment, which is used to treat the rash at least 3-4 times a day.

Causes

Shingles in adults is caused by infection with the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox in humans. Anyone who has ever had chickenpox can develop the disease. After you have had chickenpox and recovered, the chickenpox virus can remain in your nervous system and lie dormant for many years.

The varicella-zoster virus, or varicella-zoster virus, causes two types of diseases: chickenpox and herpes zoster. Typically, the virus enters the body through airborne droplets and contact. Once on the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx, the virus begins to actively multiply and penetrates the bloodstream and lymph flow. The primary disease usually affects children, causing chickenpox, then the pathogen goes dormant (latent state) and remains in the intervertebral and cranial nerve ganglia for a long period of time without the manifestation of clinical symptoms. Reactivation of the virus occurs against the background of weakened immunity in chronic and oncological diseases.

At some point, the virus may begin to actively multiply and migrate along the nerve fibers to the skin, where the rash occurs.

The area of ​​the dermis innervated by this nerve is affected. Most often these are the intercostal and trigeminal nerves.

The disease can occur in people of any age, most cases are diagnosed in the elderly.

Patients at risk also include:

• recent infectious diseases;
• pregnant women;
• who have been taking antibiotics, glucocorticosteroids, or cytostatics for a long time;
• HIV-infected;
• people over 60 years old.

According to WHO statistics, about 10–15% of the population suffer from various types of herpes zoster. In mature people, the immune functions of the body decrease, which provokes reactivation of the virus.

Pain syndrome in elderly patients may persist even after the disappearance of the skin rash (postherpetic neuralgia).

Provoking factors

Provoking factors of the disease include:

• stress;
• prolonged hypothermia;
• oncological diseases of the lymphatic system;
• treatment with immunosuppressants;
• diabetes;
• consequences of radiation and chemotherapy;
• treatment with steroid hormones;
• organ and bone marrow transplantation.

Often it is not possible to determine the cause of virus reactivation. Shingles in humans usually does not recur. Recovery occurs without any residual manifestations; in a small number of patients, neuralgia may persist for up to several months or even years.

Relapse of the disease occurs in only 2% of adults against the background of severe immunodeficiency.

There is a high risk of developing herpes zoster in people who have undergone a bone marrow transplant. In 45% of patients, a disseminated form of the disease occurs, in which the rash spreads throughout the body.

Complications often occur in the form of postherpetic neuralgia, bacterial infection, and the formation of necrotic ulcers. Death occurs in 10% of cases.

In what cases is hospitalization necessary?

Treatment of herpes zoster can be carried out both at home, after prescribing appropriate drug therapy, and in a hospital setting.

Usually, herpes zoster is quite mild and requires following all the doctor’s recommendations, as well as periodic monitoring - you need to visit a doctor once a week. To ensure the effectiveness of the selected therapy.

However, in some cases, treatment of herpes zoster should occur exclusively in a hospital setting:

• pregnant women;
• adults whose families have children under two years of age;
• herpes zoster with any complications from the nervous system;
• disease with the development of complications from the eyeball;
• disseminated form of the disease - affects all parts of the body;
• severe form of herpes zoster;
• damage to the first branch of the trigeminal nerve;
• severe renal failure;
• the presence of chronic diseases of the body in the stage of decompensation.

People with immunosuppression also require inpatient treatment. In particular, these are HIV-infected individuals and people with other acquired or congenital immunodeficiency conditions.

The question of where to treat the disease (outpatient or inpatient treatment) should be decided by the attending physician. This takes into account the form of the disease, the severity of its course, as well as the general condition of the body.

Traditional medicine methods

There are quite a lot of traditional methods for treating herpes zoster, since this disease has been known for a long time. A variety of internal and external agents are used, however, they are not able to fully replace antiviral drugs. In this case, the specificity of the use of traditional medicine is such that it has an auxiliary value.

Home treatment of herpes zoster using traditional medicine can speed up the healing process of herpes zoster rashes and reduce the severity of intoxication and itching. However, the main therapy still remains the use of a course of direct antiviral drugs.

The person must be in a separate room, where wet cleaning and ventilation are carried out daily. Bed rest is prescribed until the fever subsides. Bed and underwear must be changed every two days. A light dairy-vegetable diet and plenty of acidified drinks are prescribed.

Treatment of herpes at home can be carried out not only in adults, but also in children, but it requires consultation with a pediatrician and an assessment of the severity of the child’s condition.

Products for external use

The purpose of treatment with folk remedies for external use for herpes zoster is to reduce skin itching, disinfect and dry out rashes.

Table. Traditional recipes for treating skin with herpes zoster.

It should be remembered that the components of these folk remedies for herpes zoster can cause allergic reactions, so they should be used with caution, always checking the presence of individual intolerance.

Products for internal use

In the treatment of herpes zoster, folk remedies are also taken orally. They are used to eliminate intoxication, reduce temperature, and generally strengthen the body.

Table. Infusions and decoctions for oral administration for herpes zoster.

Natural treatments cannot completely suppress the virus. The use of traditional medicine helps reduce the duration of the disease and allows you to shorten the course of taking antiviral drugs.

Useful video about lichen on the face

List of sources:

• Atlas-reference book for practicing physicians. Dermatology. Richard P. Usatine, Mindy A. Smith, Edward J. Maye et al., 2012.
• Briefly about the main thing: diseases of the hair and scalp. R. Sinclair, W. Jolliffe. Per. from English edited by V. P. Adaskevich., 2019.
• Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in Clinical Practice. Volume 1. Second edition, corrected, revised and expanded. L. A. Goldsmith, S. I. Katz, B. A. Gilchrest and others. Transl. from English under the general editorship of N. N. Potekaev and A. N. Lvov, 2019.

There are no similar articles.

Painkillers

Mandatory components of the complex treatment of herpes zoster are medications that reduce the intensity of pain. The pain associated with the disease is severe. The patient may need to be prescribed ganglion blockers, which include Oxycodone.

The pain cannot be tolerated. Its intensification can aggravate the course of the disease, including convulsions and fainting. Pain is especially dangerous for pregnant women, since the body’s reaction can be spontaneous abortion.

Pain relief with drugs:

• "Ibuprofen";
• "Paracetamol";
• "Analgin."

The anticonvulsant drug Diazepam is used as a strong remedy. Prednisolone hormonal ointment relieves pain and itching.

If necessary, antidepressants are prescribed.

Remember: the use of painkillers requires strict control! As soon as the pain becomes tolerable, you should, if possible, stop taking them so as not to cause gastritis or stomach ulcers. This side effect is not excluded: painkillers irritate the walls of the stomach.

Which doctor treats lichen on the face?

If you find red, flaky, irregularly shaped areas on your facial skin, you should consult a dermatologist. After conducting an examination and determining the type of lichen, the doctor will prescribe adequate treatment. If necessary, the patient will be referred to specialized specialists, such as an endocrinologist, infectious disease specialist, neurologist, or immunologist.
Consultations with these doctors are required in cases where lichen is provoked by damage to the body by a viral or bacterial infection, malfunction of the endocrine or nervous system, frequent stress and colds.

Complications

If severe and atypical forms of this lichen are not treated, severe complications can occur in people with weakened immune systems.

Postherpetic neuropathy characterized by the persistence of pain for a long time after treatment and the disappearance of signs of herpes zoster.

Discomfort may last for several months, years, or be present for life. Patients with constant pain syndrome become depressed and irritable.

Meningoencephalitis appears when the membranes of the brain are damaged. Patients complain of migraines, vomiting, photophobia, and elevated body temperature.

Later, symptoms of irritation of the meninges appear: increased tone of the occipital muscles of the lower extremities, tilting the head causes flexion in the knee joints, flexion of one of the limbs in the joint leads to symmetrical action of the opposite leg.

Meningoencephalitis is a serious disease that has an unfavorable prognosis with possible death.

Herpetic myelitis is one of the complications of herpes zoster, which causes inflammation of the spinal cord.

Depending on which part is affected, paresis of the upper or lower extremities occurs, urination and bowel movements are delayed, and muscle tone decreases.

With myelitis of the upper cervical region and inflammation of the phrenic nerve, respiratory distress occurs.

Hemiplegia– complete loss of mobility of the arms and legs on one side of the body. In the limbs, muscle tone increases, and paresis of facial muscles occurs.

People suffering from diabetes mellitus, AIDS, and those who have undergone organ transplantation are most susceptible to developing complications.

Prevention of herpes zoster

Vaccination is the best preventative measure for shingles.
For patients at risk, it is important to follow preventive measures to prevent the development of the disease.

It is necessary to avoid hypothermia and stressful situations, and promptly treat concomitant diseases. A healthy lifestyle and balanced diet will help strengthen the immune system.

An effective method of prevention is vaccination.

Passive immunization increases the activity of cellular immunity in elderly people over 60 years of age.

It has been clinically proven that vaccination reduces the likelihood of developing lichen by 50%; in other cases, the disease occurs with less severe symptoms, treatment is faster and without complications.

The pain syndrome is easier to tolerate, but the likelihood of postherpetic neuralgia is not reduced.

Contraindications to vaccination are:

• individual intolerance to the components of the drug;
• immunodeficiency;
• taking corticosteroids, immunosuppressants;
• tuberculosis;
• pregnancy.

The vaccine is administered once, and itching, redness and blistering occur at the injection site.

Symptoms

The manifestations of the main types of lichen on the face are varied, but there is still a general similarity by which it can be determined that the skin is affected by an infectious disease. Symptoms of lichen:

• the appearance of flaky areas covered with scales on the skin;
• changes in the pigmentation of the epidermis on the face - lichen looks like limited areas of different colors, from light pink to dark brown;
• itching and skin irritation;
• hair loss and partial baldness if the disease manifests itself on the scalp;
• deterioration in general health - increased temperature, aches in muscles and joints.

Many skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, chickenpox, rubella, also occur with the appearance of limited rashes on the skin. It is important to consult a specialist in time and make a correct diagnosis, determining the nature of the lichen and its variety.

Causes of herpes zoster

The causes of shingles are always associated with instability of the immune system. Relapses occur for many reasons, but they will always indicate the inability of the immune system to suppress the virus in the body. When a person has had herpes zoster, the human body begins permanent immune suppression. That is, he will suppress the virus throughout his life until the protective mechanisms fail.

In this regard, when herpes zoster is considered, its causes of recurrence must be associated with a suppressed immune system. Let's look at the reasons that can lead to a failure of the immune system and activation of the zoster virus:

• radiotherapy and radiotherapy;
• cancer diseases and oncological formations;
• undergone surgical operations;
• HIV or AIDS;
• organ transplantation;
• taking antibiotics and medications that kill the immune system;
• depression and stress;
• hypothermia or overheating.

In addition to the obvious reasons for suppression of the immune system for most people, such as AIDS, taking antibiotics, or organ transplantation, immunity can weaken even under stressful situations. Let's say that many people make a mistake when hardening when they take a contrast shower and choose a wide temperature range. A sharp change in body temperature produces a stress hormone, which affects the functioning of the immune system. In order for immune suppression to work, it is necessary to exclude all methods of life activity aimed at testing the strength of the immune system.

Doctors have not found the reasons that cause shingles in humans other than a decrease in the protective functions of the body. Therefore, with herpes zoster there is only one cause, and there are many ways to cause it.

When hardening, especially systemically, you should not reduce the water temperature below 22 degrees and increase it above 39 degrees. If you stick to this range, your immunity will strengthen, but if you make a stronger contrast, your immunity will be gradually suppressed.

Atypical symptoms

Herpes zoster can manifest itself in atypical forms. The symptoms and treatment are different in this case.

Signs of atypical forms include:

Cost of drugs against herpes

Attention! The cost of medicines is indicated for the entire package without specifying the dosage and manufacturer. A slight reduction or increase in price is allowed depending on the region and category of the pharmacy chain.

"Famciclovir teva"

This is a medicine that is produced on the basis of the substance of the same name, famciclovir. It is an antiviral agent. After oral administration, famciclovir is rapidly transformed into penciclovir, which is active against human herpes viruses, as well as cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus.

Penciclovir penetrates into infected cells, where, under the influence of viral thymidine kinase, it is quickly converted into monophosphate, which, with the participation of cellular enzymes, is converted into triphosphate. Penciclovir triphosphate stays in infected cells for more than 12 hours, suppressing the production of viral DNA in them. The concentration of this substance in uninfected cells is not higher than the minimum detectable, therefore, in therapeutic doses, penciclovir does not affect uninfected cells.

The drug Famciclovir significantly reduces the duration and intensity of postherpetic neuralgia in people with herpes zoster.

The medicine should be taken as soon as possible after the onset of pathological symptoms, since in this case the therapy will be more effective.

Medicines for topical use

What else is used to treat herpes zoster? People often suffer not only from pain, but also from severe skin itching that occurs in the area of ​​the rash. Treatment of this pathology requires the use of appropriate medications.

As a rule, they are gels, ointments and creams based on acyclovir:

• "Zovirax";
• "Gerpevir";
• "Virolex";
• "Gerperax" and others.

The category of anti-itching agents for herpes zoster also includes medications containing other active substances. These are, for example, “Viru-Merz Serol”, which is based on tromantadine hydrochloride, “Panavir” with plant extracts, “Fenistil Pencivir” based on penciclovir and others.

Shingles pain

Herpetic rashes are characterized by the presence of severe pain. A person experiences a feeling of tingling, tingling, cutting, shooting. After the rash, the pain may persist for up to a year. Doctors recommend using painkillers. Medicines such as:

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ketorolac, naproxen, ibuprofen);
• tricyclic antidepressants;
• anticonvulsants – anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin);
• amantadine sulfate (PC-Merz);
• non-narcotic analgesics;
• immunoglobulins (zostevir);
• novocaine blockades;
• valacyclovir, acyclovir (against viral diseases);
• transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the affected nerves;
• adequate pain relief (oxycodone, tramadol);
• preparations based on capsaicin (Mataren plus ointment).

Drugs affecting immunity

Isoprinosine is prescribed to strengthen the immune system.. Its action is aimed at restoring the function of lymphocytes, increases the production of immunoglobulin G, interferon, interleukins 1 and 2, and also reduces the synthesis of cytokines that support the inflammatory response.

Isoprinosine also has an antiviral effect. It affects the synthesis of viral nucleic acids, preventing it from reproducing. When taken simultaneously, Acyclovir and Interferon-alpha enhance their effect.

Contraindicated in the following conditions:

• gout;
• stones in the kidneys;
• heart rhythm disturbances;
• children under 3 years old;
• allergy to the drug.

No studies have been conducted on the use of pregnant and breastfeeding women, therefore it is not recommended to prescribe Isoprinosine to them.

Take the medicine 6-8 tablets per day for 5-10 days until the symptoms disappear. Those who experience relapses are prescribed 2 tablets for 30 days.

Medications

To treat herpes zoster at home, direct antiviral drugs must be used. They are prescribed to suppress the activity of the virus, as a result of which the symptoms caused by it disappear. Drug therapy for herpes zoster is prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the severity of the symptoms.

Preparations for external use

External agents are used to accelerate the healing of shingles rashes, to relieve itching and pain, and to prevent secondary infections.

1. Emla. Lidocaine cream. Used to relieve severe pain. The cream is applied to the skin, then covered with a special film, which is included in the package with the medicine. This bandage can be kept for up to 5 hours, it will provide an analgesic effect.
2. To treat rashes and prevent secondary infections, antiseptic solutions are used - Chlorhexidine, Fukortsin, brilliant green solution. They lubricate the bubbles pointwise as they form.
3. External antiviral ointments for herpes zoster are ineffective. They are used only at the very beginning of the disease, when the rash first appears. Acyclovir, Zovirax, Fenistil pencivir ointments are used.

Treatment of the skin is carried out only with clean hands, and after the procedures they must be washed again. All external remedies are used only for fresh rashes. When crusts form, they are treated with baby cream to soften them.

Preparations for internal use

Internal medications are prescribed to directly affect the herpes virus. With their help, you can get rid of the symptoms of shingles within 7-10 days.

1. Acyclovir tablets and its derivatives (Famciclovir, Valtrex, Valvir). Acyclovir is taken orally 400 mg 5 times a day, the course of treatment is 10 days. The remaining drugs are prescribed at 500 mg 2 times a day for a course of 10 days. These are direct antiviral drugs that act on the herpes virus.
2. Cycloferon. The drug is a stimulator for the production of the body's own interferons. It has an indirect antiviral effect and strengthens the body's defenses. Take the drug according to the regimen described in the instructions for the medicine.
3. Antipyretic drugs - Paracetamol, Nimica, Ibuprofen. They are used in complex therapy of herpes zoster to eliminate symptoms of intoxication - fever, headache and muscle pain.
4. Painkillers. Conventional analgesics for shingles are ineffective, since the pain is caused by damage to the nerve fibers. To relieve pain, medications such as PC-Merz and Lyrica are used. These are quite potent drugs, so only the attending physician can prescribe them.
5. Antihistamines - Claritin, Zodak, Tavegil. Used to eliminate swelling and reduce itching in shingles.

The most effective treatment will be if you start taking medications as early as possible and follow the full treatment course.

"Viferon"

Since herpes zoster appears when the immune system is weakened, Viferon helps to recover from the disease in a short time. This medication is approved for use in pediatrics and pregnancy. However, despite the high effectiveness of the drug, self-medication is contraindicated.

The main element in the drug is interferon - protein cells that do not allow viruses to multiply. In addition to interferon, the drug contains ascorbic acid and tocopherol-alpha. "Viferon" is produced in the form of ointments, gels and rectal suppositories.

In general, what to apply to herpes zoster and the treatment plan must be agreed upon with your doctor. Suppositories are considered more effective than ointment and gel. They are used rectally, the dosage depends on the weight and age of the patient. For adults, the medication is prescribed in the morning and evening, one suppository at a dose of 500 thousand IU. It is very important to use this remedy for 5 days. Viferon ointment is used externally; it is recommended to lubricate skin rashes.

In order for the treatment of this pathology to be as effective as possible, it is recommended to start taking it as early as possible. In addition, complex therapy is important - a combination of Viferon and antiviral agents.

This medicine has virtually no contraindications and has no side effects. In rare cases, a slight burning sensation may occur at the site of application of the ointment.

Basic rules to follow

After touching skin affected by shingles, be sure to wash your hands.

The diseased skin itches, but you should be patient and under no circumstances scratch it even slightly. Use products for external use, they relieve itching. Scratching the rash can cause an infection, which will then be difficult to fight.

If the itching is too bothersome, apply a clean, thin cloth soaked in cool water to the skin.

Basic Rules

Do not rush to pierce the blisters on the skin. The time will come, and they will break through on their own.

Once the crust has formed, do not allow it to become soggy under any circumstances. Discard all lotions and compresses.

Wear loose clothing. Make sure that elastic bands and underwear straps do not pass through the area of ​​the rash.

Never cover rashes with adhesive tape. If there is a need to cover them, use a bandage.

Doctor Maria Nikolaeva

In the treatment of herpes zoster, it is very important to focus on the clinical manifestations that occur in each individual person. Therapy for this disease involves the use of several groups of drugs. Each of the medications affects certain parts of the inflammatory process. Such an integrated approach to the treatment of herpes zoster in humans can reduce the unpleasant manifestations of the disease, as well as prevent the development of complications.

1. Therapist – the appearance of rashes, which are accompanied by moderate pain and itching.
2. Dermatologist – if the rashes occupy more than one area of ​​the body. It is also worth consulting a dermatovenerologist if necessary to conduct a differential diagnosis between herpes zoster and other diseases.
3. Neurologist - consultation with a doctor is necessary for all people suffering. It is the neurologist who prescribes medications that relieve severe pain and improve neuromuscular conduction. Cases of herpes zoster with complications such as serous meningitis should also be treated under the supervision of a neurologist.
4. Neuroresuscitator– consultation with a specialist will be required if herpes zoster is complicated by encephalitis.
5. Ophthalmologist – if the eyeball is damaged, you must seek help from this doctor.

When the first rash appears, it is best to seek help from a therapist. If the doctor has any doubts about the disease, he will independently refer you to a specialist.

Quite often, shingles does not begin with the appearance of a rash, but with pain in the area of ​​the intercostal nerves. In this case, first of all, you need to consult a neurologist.

In what cases is hospitalization necessary?

Treatment of herpes zoster can be carried out both at home, after prescribing appropriate drug therapy, and in a hospital setting.

Usually, herpes zoster is quite mild and requires following all the doctor’s recommendations, as well as periodic monitoring - you need to visit a doctor once a week. To ensure the effectiveness of the selected therapy.

However, in some cases, treatment of herpes zoster should occur exclusively in a hospital setting:

• pregnant women;
• adults whose families have children under two years of age;
• herpes zoster with any complications from the nervous system;
• disease with the development of complications from the eyeball;
• disseminated form of the disease - affects all parts of the body;
• severe form of herpes zoster;
• damage to the first branch of the trigeminal nerve;
• severe renal failure;
• the presence of chronic diseases of the body in the stage of decompensation.

People with immunosuppression also require inpatient treatment. In particular, these are HIV-infected individuals and people with other acquired or congenital immunodeficiency conditions.

The question of where to treat the disease (outpatient or inpatient treatment) should be decided by the attending physician. This takes into account the form of the disease, the severity of its course, as well as the general condition of the body.

How is shingles treated?

In the treatment of herpes zoster in adults, several points must be taken into account:

• severity of pain syndrome;
• number of rashes and their prevalence;
• presence or absence of complications;
• body temperature;
• duration of rashes.

To treat herpes zoster, several groups of drugs are used:

• pathogenetic drugs;
• painkillers;
• antipyretic medications;
• antihistamines.

To reduce neurological manifestations after the disappearance of the rash elements, physiotherapy is used.

Video - treatment of herpes zoster.

General treatment regimen

Several groups of drugs are used in the treatment of herpes zoster. The general treatment regimen for herpes zoster is as follows:

1. The choice of etiotropic drug is Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Penciclovir.
2. Dehydration agents – Furosemide, Acetazolamide.
3. Disaggregant – Dipyridamole.
4. Immunomodulators – Imunofan, Prodigiozan, Azoximer bromide.
5. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – Diclofenac, Indomethacin.
6. Antipyretics – ibuprofen.
7. B vitamins – Milgamma, Neuromultivit, Mega-B Complex.
8. Sedatives to improve sleep - Glycine.
9. Detoxification therapy - Reopoliglyukin, Infucol - is carried out for parenteral rehydration in a hospital setting.

In case of complicated herpes zoster, the treatment regimen may change. The use of antiviral and anti-inflammatory drugs remains unchanged. But how to treat damage to the eyes or nervous system is determined by a specialist, based on specific clinical manifestations.

Based on statistics, a lot of people ask questions about herpes and how to treat it, which is not at all surprising, because today it is the most common virus in people. During cold weather, every fifth person can experience a manifestation on the lips in the form of slight redness. Many people encounter this problem in the form of redness and small ulcers on the genitals and mucous membranes. In all cases, it itches and hurts quite a lot.

Click on the button to go to the list of drugs for herpes!

Today, there are a huge variety of truly effective drugs, of course, many are based on the same active ingredients, but there are also those whose effects are fundamentally different, but both help cope with the disease. We have collected for you the main drugs that exist today, now there is no need to spend hours digging on the Internet, you can find out everything from one source.

How do antiherpetic tablets work?

Tablets for herpes are a whole group of drugs that are used to treat the disease in its different locations. Today there are a lot of them on the pharmacological market, although it is fair to note that not a single modern remedy is capable of completely destroying this virus - this is due to the fact that the pathogen lives inside nerve cells. Therefore, the tablets used help relieve symptoms, reduce the duration of its active phase, and also prevent relapses. Drugs increase the body’s resistance, especially if they have an additional parameter – immunomodulatory properties.

Taking pills works according to this scheme:

• Once in the stomach, they dissolve, and the active component is quickly released, penetrating into the general bloodstream;
• the agent then penetrates into the affected cells, where it blocks the replication of the virus, that is, it disrupts its ability to multiply and spread to other cells.

This group of drugs has a fairly large list of possible side effects, so they are taken only as prescribed by a doctor.

Types of tablets against the herpes virus on the lips and body

The main group of drugs against herpes, which has proven effectiveness, is relatively small, it includes four nucleosides that are similar in their action - acyclovir, penciclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir. The bulk of medicines of all forms have one of the listed substances as an active component. Moreover, the latter are inactive for the component, that is, they are activated only upon penetration into the digestive tract, where they are transformed into the active form: valacyclovir into acyclovir, and famciclovir into penciclovir. All of them block DNA synthesis in the reproducing virus, but do not affect the inactive pathogen.

Depending on the characteristics of the composition, herpes tablets can be classified not only by the active substance, but also by their properties. So, the following drugs can be used:

• the drug can be positioned as a narrowly targeted antiherpetic (this is Acyclovir, Zovirax, Valtrex);
• a herpes remedy with an immunomodulatory effect (Anaferon, Galavit, etc.);
• Interferon preparations can also be used, but their ability to suppress the activity of the herpes virus is seriously doubted by some experts (Reaferon);
• tablets that stimulate the patient’s own interferon production. This action allows you to increase the intensity of the body’s immune response to the development of a herpes pathogen (Arbidol, Lavomax, Cycloferon).

What is important to know about herpes, its manifestations and modern methods of treatment...

Review of effective drugs

Drugs to combat the problem under consideration are varied, although they can be divided into groups based on the active component, since this component is repeated in many. However, each remedy manifests itself as an effective drug, and therefore deserves special attention when choosing the one that is relevant in a particular situation. Therefore, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the list of the most effective pharmacological products used in the treatment of herpes.

Antiviral drug Valtrex

An antiviral agent based on valacyclovir hydrochloride, sold in the form of tablets with a concentration of the active substance of 500 mg each. This drug is used to treat lesions of the skin and mucous membranes, including genital and labial forms of herpes. After taking the tablets, the active component is quickly absorbed from the digestive tract and eliminated from the body within 6 hours. The big advantage of the product is the limited number of contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components and caution in use in severe forms of the human immunodeficiency virus.

Famciclovir latest generation

The drug is available in tablet form and has a substance with the same name as an active component. It is offered to patients in various dosages - 125, 250 and 500 mg. After ingestion, the component is transformed into penciclovir, which is expressed relative to herpes simplex viruses of the first and second types, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr and shingles, against which it is used. I take the tablets orally, regardless of meals, simply with clean water. The specific dosage is prescribed by the doctor, as it depends on the patient’s condition and his immune status.

Medicine Zovirax for the treatment of herpes

The product is available in a large number of different pharmacological forms: capsules, tablets, suspension, injection solution, cream, ointment and separately eye ointment, thus, it can be used both for external application and for oral administration. The main component of all forms is the substance acyclovir. Area of ​​influence of the drug: herpes zoster, simple and genital herpes, both primary and severe and recurrent. This product is often used to prevent the development of infection in patients with immune disorders.

The effect of this component on the herpes virus is produced by a substance called valacyclovir. It is offered to patients in different dosages in the form of film-coated tablets. The product is used as a tool for the treatment of herpes, lichen, and also as a prophylactic product to prevent the development of herpes and cytomegalovirus. Depending on the situation a person is faced with, a certain dosage is prescribed. So, for herpes simplex, it will be enough to take one tablet (500 mg) twice a day for 5 days.

Acyclovir tablets

The drug in question contains an active substance of the same name, which ensures its effect. Acyclovir has a standard list of antiviral activity: herpes of the first and second types, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr and lichen. The scheme of influence on cells is also standard - suppression of DNA replication of the viral element. The regimen is determined by the existing problem. So, for herpes simplex, 200 mg (this is one tablet) is prescribed 5 times a day, but prevention involves taking 3 tablets a day for one week. The manufacturer indicates that the best results will be achieved if you start therapy at the first symptoms of the problem.

This drug is an analogue of the previously discussed drug Famciclovir and has the same active ingredient, as well as similar dosages. After penetration into the body, the components of the product are transformed and attack the affected cells, suppressing the replication of viral DNA in them. Dosages and duration of the course are determined individually, but there are general recommendations. So, for example, with a normal level of immunity and taking 1500 mg of the drug at a time or dividing the dose into two doses, you can get rid of the manifestations of labial herpes (the one that forms on the lips).

Anaferon is a very popular drug today, as it combines antiviral, immunostimulating, immunomodulating effects, as well as good compatibility with other medicinal products. It is used to treat all types of herpes virus. When the problem becomes active, take 8 tablets per day for the first three days, and after about two more weeks, 4 tablets per day. Prevention of relapse involves using only one tablet per day, but for 6 months.

Antiviral tablets, produced in 10 and 20 pieces with a dosage of 200 and 400 mg under the names Acyclovir, Acyclovir Acri, Zovirax, Ciclovir, Vivorax and others. The approximate price for the drug 200 mg is 35-60 rubles, 400 mg is 150-200 rubles.

Used against herpes virus types 1 and 2 for 5-10 days in a standard dosage (800-1000 mg/day) and with an increase in dose for Zoster infection (2000 mg/day) and Epstein-Barr.

You should take the tablets after meals with plenty of water.

The main advantages of Acyclovir:

1. This is the only drug from this group of drugs whose tablets can be prescribed to pregnant women and children.
2. The most common and well-known - its effectiveness was confirmed for many years before the development of other means.
3. Classic Acyclovir (with the exception of those produced by individual companies) is the cheapest and most accessible drug of all antiherpetic drugs.

The only disadvantages of these tablets are their low effectiveness against herpes types 7 and 8 and their weak effect on the Epstein-Barr virus. Other drugs are prescribed to treat these diseases.

Valaciclovir (Valtrex)

Valtrex tablets consist of 500 mg of Valaciclovir, another form of Acyclovir that is better absorbed by the body. The package can contain 10 or 42 pieces.

The drug is available only in this form - there are no ointments, ampoules or other similar products with Valaciclovir. Indications for use are the same infections as regular Acyclovir: Valtrex is no different from it in properties. However, there are several advantages compared to the effectiveness and speed of action of the first drug:

1. Valaciclovir is more convenient to take - 500 mg twice a day, regardless of meal times, while Acyclovir should be taken 4-5 times daily.
2. The drug is better absorbed by the body and gives faster results - up to 5 days, while Acyclovir takes up to 10.
3. Taking 1 tablet daily prevents the transmission of genital herpes to a healthy partner.

However, there are also negative differences. The price of the drug is significantly higher - packs of 10 tablets are distributed at 900-1300 rubles. A pack of 42 pieces can cost up to 3,500 rubles. The drug is usually not prescribed to pregnant women and children due to insufficient clinical studies.

Famciclovir (Famvir)

Famvir tablets are available in three dosages of Famciclovir - 125, 25 and 500 mg. The package can contain 7, 10, 14, 20, 21, 28, 30 and 40 pieces. In the body, the drug is converted not into Acyclovir, like Valtrex, but into Penciclovir. However, its action is aimed at combating the same herpes viruses.

The advantages of this antiviral agent:

• selective activity (does not affect healthy cells);
• suppression of Acyclovir-resistant strains of herpes;
• improvement in postherpetic neuralgia (after herpes zoster);

The disadvantage of Famvir is its high price. For a package of the drug you will have to pay from 1200 to 4500 rubles, depending on the number of tablets and the manufacturer’s brand.

Famciclovir is most often prescribed for type 3 herpes and ophthalmoherpes, since it is most effective against it. The dosage is 250 mg 3 times a day or 500-750 - 2 times a week or 10 days. For herpes simplex (labial or genital), taking 250 mg three times for 5 days is enough. Relapses are treated with a dosage of 125 mg.

These tablets consist of a low-modular interferon inducer - that is, they promote greater activity of the immune system. How does the drug differ from the above?

1. This is not a separate antiviral agent, but an immunomodulator.
2. The action of Cycloferon is aimed at improving the functioning of the body’s natural defense so that it itself fights herpes infection.
3. The properties of the tablets also include anti-inflammatory properties.
4. When treating herpes, the drug must be taken according to a special regimen: 4 tablets per day for 2 days in a row, then 3 times every other day and, finally, another 5 times every 3 days.
5. The drug can be prescribed to children from 4 years of age.

The drug is available in 10 and 50 pieces per package. The estimated cost of 10 tablets is 160-200 rubles. , 50 – 750-900 rub.
It is important to remember that in case of thyroid diseases, taking Cycloferon can cause complications. The course of treatment in such cases should be carried out under the supervision of the attending physician.

Amiksin tablets act similarly to Cycloferon - they stimulate the immune system. However, the active ingredient in them is different - tilaxin. The drug is available in dosages of 60 and 125 mg, in packages of 6, 10 or 20 pieces. On average, for 10 tablets of 60 mg you need to pay 450-600 rubles, 125 mg - 800-900 rubles.

The drug is domestically produced and is very popular in Russian clinics. Effectively suppresses the activity of the herpes virus and enhances the production of antibodies to it.

The drug should be taken before meals. Treatment regimen for adults: 2 days in a row, 1 tablet of 125 mg, then another 8-18 tablets every other day. Children are prescribed only after reaching the age of 7, but Amiksin is completely contraindicated for pregnant women.

Traditionally, both Cycloferon and Amiksin are prescribed in combination with antiviral tablets Acyclovir, Famciclovir and others. Combined treatment gives much better results and reliably prevents relapses.

Other new drugs

The following newest medications are no less effective for the treatment of recurrent forms of herpes: Reaferon, Neovir, Kagocel, Ridostin. Immunomodulators for stimulating cellular and humoral immunity, cytokine synthesis and activation of redox processes - “Alpizarin”, “Galavit”, “Imunofan”, “Imunomax”, “Licopid”.

Antiviral

These medications act directly on the virus and its DNA, effectively eliminating manifestations of the infection. They block the ability of herpes to synthesize pathogenic proteins and reproduce. But the drugs are inactive against the dormant form of the pathogen.

The newest medicine helps when the virus has mutated and become resistant to the action of traditional antiherpetic drugs. Foscarnet is prescribed in severe cases, with complications in immunocompromised patients.

The strongest substance in the composition (sodium foscarnet) penetrates the infected cell and binds the pathogen's DNA polymerases, which disrupts the viral reproduction chain. The fullest effect applies to HSV types I and II, their mutated types. The drug treats herpes on the lips, nose, genitals, and herpes zoster.

Available in the form of local 3% ointments and solutions for droppers. Contraindicated for pregnant women, nursing mothers, newborns, allergy sufferers, and patients with renal failure.

"Brivudin"

This best drug is effective against HSV type I, zoster, varicella and their combinations. Before the appointment, a test is carried out to determine the sensitivity of the flora to the main component. Available in tablet form.

Advantages:

• the only contraindication is hypersensitivity to the composition;
• selectivity of action;
• prescribed for children.

Available in gel form for local treatment of the skin and mucous membranes. It acts directly at the site of inflammation, creating a protective film against the penetration of secondary infections and to block the spread of the virus. The fastest effect is achieved when used as soon as the first symptoms appear. With regular application to the rash, recovery occurs within 3-6 days.

• relieves inflammation;
• relieves swelling;
• eliminates itching and burning.

Advantages:

• selectivity to labial, genital, herpes zoster;
• minimizing the number of relapses.

Contraindicated for skin allergies and children under 12. For pregnant and lactating women, the gel is prescribed only after consultation with a doctor.

The effectiveness of the drug is manifested:

• suppression of the ability of the virus to reproduce at the nuclear phase stage;
• activation of interferon synthesis;
• fight inflammation.

It is offered in the form of capsulated tablets in two dosages - 90 and 60 mg of the active component (vitaglutam). It is recommended to take it as soon as the first signs of illness appear, but preferably no later than 36 hours.

After administration, allergic reactions may occur, which is rare. This strong remedy is contraindicated for pregnant women, children under 18 years of age, and those with hypersensitivity. During lactation, treatment is possible only after stopping breastfeeding.

Other

Second-line antiherpetic drugs - “Ribavirin”, “Inosine pranobex”, “Panavir”, “Proteflazid”, “Spironolactone”, “Flavozid”, “Mangogerpin”. For pregnant women and children there is a cheap but effective remedy - Arbidol.

tvoyherpes.ru

Immunostimulants and immunomodulators

Pharmacists produce large quantities of immune stimulants to force the body to defend itself. Many drugs are the latest developments of scientists and have unproven effectiveness.

Immunologists can treat herpes with strong stimulants that work as immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory agents.

• Tablets for herpes on the body Galavit are prescribed when the body is severely affected by the virus. Sublingual tablets contain 25 mg sodium aminodihydrophthalazinedione.
• Once in the body, it affects the activity of phagocytic cells and stimulates the production of endogenous interferons.
• As a result of treating herpes with tablets, phagocytosis increases and the body's nonspecific resistance to infectious diseases increases.
• This medicine is prescribed to adults and children over 12 years of age. The product is considered non-toxic and in rare cases causes an allergic reaction associated with intolerance to the components.

For herpes, Amiksin tablets are often prescribed to stimulate the body's protective functions. The active ingredient in this drug is tilaxin. Its single dose per tablet can be 60 or 125 mg. The package contains from 6 to 20 pieces. The active substance quickly suppresses the activity of the virus and promotes the production of antibodies to the causative agent of the disease. Along with Amiksin, other drugs are prescribed so that the combined treatment gives the best result and prevents relapses.

Peculiarities

New remedies for herpes can effectively eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of the disease of any severity, as well as prevent the progression and recurrence of the disease. To maximize the effect, it is recommended to use a complex of therapeutic measures with the prescription of antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs.

Constantly recurring incidents of exacerbation of herpetic infections of different localization indicate a strong decrease in immunity, which requires correct and timely intervention. Otherwise, serious complications cannot be avoided.

Herpes medications allow you to:

• to stop the development of the disease in a short time, relieve acute symptoms;
• increase the efficiency of the immune system to give the body strength to independently suppress the virus;
• reduce or completely eliminate the risks of possible relapses;
• reduce the duration of the exacerbation phase;
• prevent the spread of the pathogen;
• lengthen the improvement stage as much as possible.

Effect on the virus

Each modern drug demonstrates an integrated approach to combating herpes infection. They work at the level of the pathogen's DNA, destroying the protective membrane of its cells. As a result, the division function and the ability to reproduce are suppressed. The loss of protective properties causes the virus to go into latent form and not manifest itself for a long time. Due to their immunomodulatory properties, such drugs make it possible to increase the natural immunity of the human body by stimulating the production of its own antibodies to herpes, which will allow timely activation of protection in the future as the pathogen becomes more active in certain conditions.

Strong modern medications against herpes are offered in the form of oral tablets and broad-spectrum injection solutions, in the form of ointments, sprays and creams for topical treatment of localized rashes. Each new remedy against herpes is endowed with certain features and advantages.

What you need to know about pill treatment

• You should use tablets for herpes on the lips only after consultation with your doctor and strictly according to the instructions in order to avoid side effects from taking them.
• Treatment for herpes on the lips implies not only the treatment of this disease, but also the prevention of its relapses.
• Common side effects of overdose may include drowsiness, nausea and headaches.
• A very effective remedy for the later stages of herpes on the lips.
• They stop the increased reproduction of the virus and its spread to healthy cells.
• Taking it does not guarantee getting rid of the virus forever.
• Remedies for herpes on the lips often do not conflict with the components of drugs used to treat other diseases.
• Unlike ointments, which act only on the superficial layers of the skin, they affect the body from the inside, which enhances the therapeutic effect.

Treatment on other areas of the body

The herpes virus is found not only in the lips and genitals, it can “go” further on the body - it can affect the arms, legs, and stomach. If it grows massively, you cannot do without tablets. Which remedies are most effective? Dermatologists most often prescribe Acyclovir; these tablets are approved not only for adults, but also for children over one year of age.

The drug is effective against:

• herpes formations, scabs;
• itching in affected areas;
• burning.

Analogues of Acyclovir are Zovirax and Virolex tablets. They all have the same active ingredient in common; the drugs differ in the duration of the course of treatment. These medications are by far the best in their niche.

Another herpes pill whose external signs have appeared on the body is Foscarnet. The drug is based on phosphorus, which has a toxic effect on virus cells. The drug is intended for adult men and women.

What is it struggling with?

Foscarnet not only fights the visible symptoms of herpes, the medicine prevents further development of the virus in the body. The product is effective against infections of types 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Antiviral drugs with immunomodulatory properties have a good effect.

Their main features:

1. symptoms disappear completely within 2-3 days;
2. the likelihood of an early relapse is minimal;
3. prescribed for men and women of different ages, most drugs are approved for children from 3 years of age;
4. fight against many signs of herpes - relieve tumors, itching and burning.

The most popular drugs in this group are Kagocel, Arbidol, Cycloferon and Immunal. These medications can not only suppress the herpes infection, but also reduce the likelihood of reoccurrence.
All medications should be selected by a dermatologist based on a complete diagnosis, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient. Self-medication can be dangerous to health.

How to take medications in tablets correctly?

The range of tablet products is very large, and you have to choose according to several criteria. Drugs that include valacyclovir as an inactive form belong to a new generation of drugs and are considered safer for humans (although their cost is much more expensive). Regardless of the drug chosen, there is only one thing to remember - it must be taken in accordance with the recommendations given by the attending physician.

Tablets are not always prescribed; a specialist can prescribe them in the following situations:

• primary infection, which occurs in a severe form, or cases of frequent relapses of viral activity (usually 3-4 times a year);
• prevention of the occurrence of herpetic diseases in patients with immunodeficiencies;
• non-standard localization of herpetic eruptions.

On average, therapy lasts for 5 days, and per day the patient receives about 1000-1200 mg of the active drug component, divided into several doses. In certain situations, the dosage may be doubled. But it is worth noting that each of the drugs has its own characteristics of administration. For example, valacyclovir-based products are usually recommended at only 125 mg twice a day for 5 days. The tablets are swallowed whole, simply washed down with clean water, usually regardless of meals.

Doses

Any anti-herpes medicine in tablets should be taken in doses prescribed by the doctor. The specificity of the tablets lies precisely in the fact that they are drugs for the treatment of severe forms of herpes. If herpes is not so dangerous that you need to show it to the doctor, then you don’t need to prescribe pills for yourself and then take them.

Conversely, when pills are required, consultation with a specialist is required.

So, herpes pills are sometimes prescribed in the following situations:

1. Primary infection or recurrence of genital herpes, including in maternity hospitals;
2. Treatment of herpes zoster;
3. Prevention of herpesvirus infections in patients with immunodeficiencies;
4. Severe herpes on the face affecting large areas of the skin;
5. Non-standard localization of rashes with herpes simplex - herpetic stomatitis, panaritium, sycosis;
6. And also too frequent relapses of infections caused by the herpes simplex virus - more than 3-4 times a year.

Acyclovir usually lasts 5 days. During this time, the patient takes the drug 200 mg 5-6 times every day. It is possible to increase the single dose to 400-500 mg while reducing the number of doses. In severe cases and primary infections, the doctor may extend the course of treatment.

• Valtrex and Vairova tablets are taken for infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, 2 times a day for 5 days. Dosage of tablets – 500 mg. For herpes zoster, the dosage is increased to 1000 mg, the frequency is increased to three times a day, the duration of treatment is up to a week.
• Tablets based on famciclovir are prescribed to take 500 mg 3 times a day for a week for herpes zoster and 125 mg twice a day for 5 days for herpes simplex viruses.
• In cases of pregnancy, the patient has impaired renal function, immunodeficiency conditions or complicated herpesvirus infections, the doctor prescribes the dose, schedule and duration of taking the tablets on an individual basis.

For children

For children, tablets against herpes are prescribed only in cases where the disease is life-threatening or is likely to lead to disability. Such cases include treatment of herpes in HIV-positive children, as well as after organ transplantation and when receiving immunosuppressive drugs. In other cases, the use of these drugs in children is not justified.

The use of interferon inducers and agents with this protein is justified only in cases of severe herpetic infections. The course of antiviral therapy in such situations is sometimes supplemented with Cycloferon, Neovir and some other drugs. Only a doctor should prescribe them.

Feedback: “When my little one got blisters on his lips for the first time, I felt bad. It's herpes, nothing helps! I also know that my friends’ child had such a nasty problem, and some very serious one, so they treated him for crazy money for six months. I took mine to the pediatrician and showed it. She calmed me down. He says that this is normal, half of the children have herpes, and severe cases occur only in those with AIDS. She said that there are medications, she said the names, but somehow added that they are not of much use, and if the child has normal immunity, then they are not needed. She said that if next time there are problems, then call her immediately. But a year has already passed, I even had ARVI twice, but herpes did not appear. Pah-pah-pah." Marina, Butovo.

A course of treatment

For herpes on the lip, two types of tablets are used: antiviral and immunotherapeutic.

Antiviral drugs:

• (plates of 10 and 20 pieces with a dosage of 200 or 400 mg). The drug Acyclovir for herpes on the lips is one of the most popular, effective and well-proven remedies on the market. Use the drug for 10 days 5 times a day. The drug has the following strengths:
  • low cost with fairly high efficiency;
  • has no contraindications for use by pregnant women and children;
  • It is very well tolerated by the body and rarely causes side effects.
• (plates of 10 and 42 pieces with a dosage of 500 mg). This drug is available only in tablet form. The course of administration is designed for 5 days, the drug is used 2 times a day. Among its disadvantages, one can highlight the very high cost, however, the list of advantages compensates for this fact:
  • less frequency of use;
  • the effect is achieved twice as fast;
  • Valtrex tablets for herpes are an excellent way to prevent the transmission of the disease to a healthy person.

• (quantity per package varies from 7 to 40 pieces, dosages: 125, 250 and 500 mg). The course of treatment with the drug is 7 days, 500 mg twice a day. An expensive antiviral agent with a number of noticeable advantages:
  • the effect of the drug does not apply to healthy cells;
  • suppresses herpesvirus strains that are resistant to Acyclovir;
  • prevents relapses as much as possible (when taking 125 mg of the drug per day).
• Alpizarin(10 and 30 tablets of 100 mg). A drug for the relatively quick treatment of herpes on the lips of plant origin:
  • quickly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract;
  • an overdose of this drug has not been recorded;
  • inhibit virus reproduction.
• (plates of 5 tablets of 200 mg each). An effective remedy for the treatment of herpes on the lips, especially in the first stages of this disease. This drug is also often used as a prophylactic.
• Vivorax(10 tablets of 200 mg). The drug, which previously worked well in the form of an ointment, is currently available in tablets.
• Supraviran(dosage 200, 400 and 800 mg, 25 and 35 pieces per package). A good preventive and antiviral agent in the initial stages of herpes on the lips.
• (10 tablets of 500 mg). The action applies to 6 types of human herpesvirus at all stages of the disease. The price of these tablets for herpes on the lips is acceptable for all segments of the population.
• Remantadine(20 tablets of 50 mg per package). A cheap drug that is easily digestible and easily tolerated by the body. In addition to adults, it is recommended for children from 7 years of age.
• Minaker(tablets in dosages of 125, 250 and 500 mg). In the body it is transformed into penciclovir, stopping the spread of the virus in the body. Contraindicated in people with renal failure.
• Acyclostad(dosage 200, 400 and 800 mg). A derivative of acyclovir, which can be used from 2 years of age without the risk of side effects and severe complications.

Immunomodulators:

• (10 or 50 tablets of 150 mg per package). Before taking Acyclovir for herpes on the lip, it is recommended to strengthen the body's protective functions. It is this drug that gives the best results in this process. Also, the medicine has an antiviral effect. The method of application is specific: the first two days - 4 tablets, then 3 - every other day, after which every 3rd day - 5 tablets.
• (packs of 6, 10 and 20 pieces, dosage 60 and 125 mg). This drug accelerates the production of antibodies to the virus and also suppresses it well.
• Isoprinosine(pack of 10 tablets of 500 mg). A powerful remedy, when taken you can refuse antiviral drugs. The component of the tablets, inosinpranobex, copes well with pain at any stage of the disease.
• Galavit(5 bottles of 100 mg). An effective remedy for the first manifestations of herpes on the lips. Relieves swelling, reduces itching and prevents the inflammatory process.
• Lavomax(10 tablets of 125 mg). Expensive and effective remedy. It has a high degree of protein binding and a short period of excretion from the human body in feces and urine.

Doctors recommend the combined use of the above remedies. The price of Acyclovir tablets with the cost of any of the immunotherapeutic agents will not hit the pocket of the average resident of the Russian Federation, and the effect of such treatment will be almost at the same level as when using expensive drugs.

Is it possible to get rid of an illness in 2 days?

The effectiveness of therapy directly depends on the complexity of the situation and how early therapy was started. So, if used correctly, starting from the very first symptoms of the disease, you can get rid of the signs of relapse in one day.

It is of great importance when exactly the drug was started - if the pills were taken before rashes formed on the face or genitals, then most likely they will not appear at all.

If the bubbles have already formed, then you will have to undergo therapy longer until they disappear.

Tablets or ointments - which is better?

When choosing between ointments and tablets against herpes, you should consider the following nuances:

1. The tablets act systemically, on the entire body. For this reason, they can cause side effects - allergies, poisoning, headaches. Ointments are safer, which is especially important for children and pregnant women;
2. Tablets are more convenient to use - so to speak, swallow and forget;
3. Tablet preparations are generally more expensive than ointments.

In most cases, the use of tablets at home (especially to combat herpes on the lips) can be considered excessive and unjustified. In general, for ordinary herpes on the face - on the lips, on the nose, on the chin - at home it is enough to use ointments and gels. Tablets are used in difficult situations, when the danger from the disease is higher than the possible side effects of its treatment with tablets.

Thus, tableted antiherpetic drugs, as a rule, are not used independently. They are included by the doctor in the therapeutic complex as the main means, in addition to which other antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs work.

Danger of use

All herpes pills can cause allergies in some people with characteristic symptoms - nausea, vomiting, headaches and dizziness. In rare cases, after taking the drug, manifestations of anaphylaxis are observed.

In addition, after taking tablets for herpes, disturbances in the functioning of the kidneys are sometimes recorded, including renal failure and colic, as well as side effects from the nervous system - hallucinations, depression of consciousness, convulsions, coma.

It is noted that impaired renal function increases the risk of nervous system disorders.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, tablets of antiherpetic drugs are prescribed only by a doctor and only in situations where the benefits of using these drugs outweigh the possible danger to the fetus or infant.

What will definitely help

The following types of tablets are definitely useless in the treatment of herpes:

1. Antibiotics - they are not active against viruses in general and herpes in particular;
2. Homeopathic remedies, including Anaferon - many experts believe that their effectiveness does not exceed the effectiveness of placebo, and not a single study has confirmed that they can influence the course of herpes;
3. Any tablets based on herbal raw materials - today there are no herbal preparations known that, when used systemically, can destroy herpes viruses in the body (with the exception of Panavir preparations, in which the active ingredient is an extract from potato shoots, but these products are not available in tablet form).

You should also be very careful when considering advice to take various immunomodulators. Along with truly effective (and very expensive) drugs of this type, the market today is filled with dummy drugs that cannot in any way affect the course of the disease or the state of the immune system.
herpes911.ru

Should I take pills to prevent herpes?

First of all, you need to understand that if you really needed to prevent herpes with the help of tablets, you would have to take them constantly. For example, Valtrex for prevention is prescribed to patients with normal immunity in the amount of 500 mg once a day for a year, and to patients with immunodeficiency - 500 mg twice a day without breaks. The regimens for taking other tablets for the prevention of herpes are similar.

• Thus, you cannot take a preventive course of herpes medicine for a week or two and be sure that the body will be protected from infection for a whole year.
• The active ingredients of the tablets are quickly eliminated from the body and cease to affect the viral particles constantly produced by infected cells (for the same famciclovir, the half-life is 24-48 hours).
• In order for the substances that destroy viral particles to be constantly present in the body, the tablets would have to be taken constantly.
• Consequently, such prevention is justified almost exclusively only for people with immunodeficiencies. In other situations, the immune system successfully fights viruses, and in case of “failures,” it is quite possible to begin effective treatment in a timely manner.

For truly effective and safe prevention of herpes, it is much more important to lead a healthy lifestyle and eat well (high-quality) to naturally support the immune system.

Interesting video: a girl tells how she got rid of private relapses of herpes without pills

Wrong prevention

When it comes to preventing herpetic diseases using tablets, it is important to understand that this is only advisable in certain cases. Considering that the virus is not completely destroyed, and the components of substances that fight its reproduction are quickly eliminated from the body, the main burden falls on the immune system. So, with a normal level of immune defense, the problem may never manifest itself at all, and for this you do not need to take antiherpetic drugs. If a failure occurs, then it is more advisable to undergo short therapy for the symptoms that have arisen.

• Manufacturers indicate in the instructions that the tablets can be used for prevention, but this approach requires a very long course.
• So, usually this is either six months or a year of daily use of the minimum dose of the drug.
• Such measures are relevant only for those people who have immunodeficiencies, since their defense system simply cannot resist the multiplication of the virus on its own.

Contraindications

Almost any medicine against herpes on the lips is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Individual intolerance to individual components of the drugs also plays an important role. Self-treatment is not recommended; before starting a course of taking pills, you should consult an appropriate specialist.

For preschool children and schoolchildren under 12 years of age, the use of most drugs is contraindicated. In cases of severe exacerbation of herpes on the lips, administration is possible after consultation with a pediatrician, under his supervision and strictly according to the instructions.

Preventive measures

To prevent herpes on the lips, tablets from the antiviral group are taken in reduced dosages. Such preventive measures are especially recommended for people with weakened immune systems, as well as during the treatment of colds.

A set of preventive measures is especially recommended in the autumn season, when the human body is most vulnerable to the influence of external factors (dampness, cold).

Herpes zoster has another name - shingles. The causative agent of this infectious pathology is the herpes virus. The disease affects the skin and nervous system, and therefore therapy is carried out by both dermatologists and neurologists, depending on which clinical symptoms are most pronounced. Herpes zoster and chickenpox have a common etiology and pathogenesis. This is a secondary infection of endogenous origin in people who have previously had chickenpox in a latent or clinical form. After chickenpox, viruses can persist in the body for a long time. They are localized in the ganglia of the cranial nerves and spinal ganglia, and under the influence of pathogenic factors they are reactivated, which is most often observed when cellular immunity is weakened.

Varicella-zoster viruses spread rapidly through the blood, cerebrospinal fluid and nerve sheaths when entering the human body. If they settle in the nerve cells of the spinal ganglia, they will persist there for life. Since they have a tropism for cells of the nervous system, varicella-zoster viruses cause diseases that often occur as an infectious disease of the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Lifelong latent carriage has been established in approximately 20% of residents of our country who had chickenpox in childhood. Asymptomatic carriage of a dormant virus can be lifelong. The main refuge for it is the nerve cells of the body. Under the influence of internal and/or external agents, the virus is activated.

Injuries, stressful conditions, hypothermia, infectious and somatic diseases can also activate herpes. The pathological anatomy of the disease in its classical form is an inflammatory process in the spinal ganglia and in areas of the skin adjacent to them. Sometimes the anterior and posterior horns of the gray matter, spinal cord roots, and soft membranes of the brain may be involved in the process.

The disease develops gradually, with general symptoms: dyspepsia, headache, fever, malaise and chills. Later itching and burning of the skin and rashes occur. The intensity of these manifestations may vary in each patient.

After a short prodromal period, a sharp rise in temperature and symptoms of intoxication (loss of appetite, muscle pain) are observed. At the same time, a painful rash appears on the skin in the form of pink spots, 2-5 mm in diameter. Very often, herpes zoster occurs on the back. Children may develop catarrhal inflammation of the respiratory tract (laryngitis, pharyngitis, rhinitis), which significantly complicates the course of the disease.

How dangerous is herpes zoster?

Herpes zoster, despite its prevalence, is considered a very dangerous pathology. In addition to neuralgia, numerous other complications are possible. As the rash develops, ulcers can form, which leave scars and welts on the skin. This occurs due to deep damage to the skin.

But the main danger of herpes zoster is the development of meningoencephalitis, which causes intense headaches, vomiting, photophobia, and possible loss of consciousness. This disease often leads to disability of the patient. Herpes zoster is especially dangerous in older people.

If the eyes and facial nerve are damaged, the patient may develop serious consequences in the form of blindness or glaucoma. In certain cases, herpes zoster can provoke the development of viral hepatitis and pneumonia.

The presence of the virus in the female body often leads to cervical erosion, problems with pregnancy, the development of infertility and cancer.

Recurrent herpes in a man’s body causes a weakening of the immune system, which creates positive conditions for the development of many diseases. In men, prostatitis, vesiculitis, epididymo-orchitis and bacterial urethritis are often diagnosed.

Neonatal herpes can result in serious neurological pathologies and even cause death. Often the consequences of such a viral infection in children are meningoencephalitis and hydrocephalus, affecting the brain. So, let's find out how to treat herpes zoster.

Treatment of the disease

Etiotropic therapy of the pathological process is based on the use of selective inhibitors of viral DNA production, for example, acyclovir. This treatment is effective in the initial stages of the disease. The drug "Acyclovir" is prescribed intravenously, in a daily dosage of 15-30 mg/kg, which is divided into three injections with a break of 8 hours. A single dose is diluted in an isotonic solution. When prescribing tablet forms of this drug, the single dose is 800 mg 5 times a day for 5 days.

It is not always possible to quickly treat herpes zoster with medications. Pathogenetic therapy is based on the intake of dipyridamole, which slows down the processes of platelet aggregation. The course of treatment with this medicinal substance should be at least 5-7 days. For dehydration purposes, furosemide is prescribed. To activate immunogenesis, homologous use of immunoglobulin (via intramuscular injection) is recommended.

Symptomatic therapy for this disease is prescribed individually, and it depends on the severity of its course. For this purpose, analgesics, restorative and antipyretic drugs are used, for sleep disorders - sleeping pills and sedatives, and in some cases - antidepressants. If signs of intoxication are pronounced, detoxification treatment with forced diuresis is carried out.

Locally, the rashes are treated with a solution of brilliant green, and during the period of crust formation - with dermatol ointment. If a secondary bacterial infection occurs, a course of antibiotic therapy is prescribed. Your doctor will tell you how to treat herpes zoster.

Review of drugs

The main medications for the occurrence of herpes zoster are:

• "Acyclovir";
• "Famciclovir teva";
• "Amiksin";
• "Viferon" (a means to enhance immune defense).

The following types of medications are used in combination:

• antiherpetic;
• painkillers;
• antiviral;
• immunomodulatory;
• anti-inflammatory;
• relieving itching.

"Acyclovir"

This medication is an antiviral agent for parenteral, internal, external and local use. When treating this type of herpes, it is usually used in the form of Acyclovir 200 mg tablets. It is a synthetic analogue of an acyclic purine nucleoside. The drug has increased specificity against Herpes simplex viruses (HSV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Varicella zoster virus (VZV). The greatest activity of the main substance is observed against HSV-1.

The mechanism of action of "Acyclovir" in herpes zoster is due to the penetration of the active element directly into cells infected with the virus and producing viral thymidine kinase, as a result of which it is phosphorylated to acyclovir monophosphate. The functionality of the virus's thymidine kinase in relation to acyclovir is much higher than the effect of intracellular enzymes on it (the volume of acyclovir monophosphate in cells is 40-100 times higher). Subsequently, acyclovir triphosphate is formed, which is a selective and extremely active inhibitor of viral DNA polymerase.

According to the instructions, Acyclovir 200 mg is prescribed parenterally and orally for the treatment of the following pathologies: recurrent and primary genital herpes of severe forms, herpes zoster (Varicella zoster), herpes simplex with damage to the skin and mucous membranes (Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2), herpes zoster affecting the eyes.

Contraindications

It is better to find out in advance how herpes zoster is treated, since the medications have quite a few contraindications. The drug "Acyclovir" is not prescribed if there is:

• hypersensitivity to the elements of the composition;
• lactase deficiency, glucose-galactose malabsorption;
• age less than 3 years;
• lactation period.

"Famciclovir teva"

This is a medicine that is produced on the basis of the substance of the same name, famciclovir. It is an antiviral agent. After oral administration, famciclovir is rapidly transformed into penciclovir, which is active against human herpes viruses, as well as cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus.

Penciclovir penetrates into infected cells, where, under the influence of viral thymidine kinase, it is quickly converted into monophosphate, which, with the participation of cellular enzymes, is converted into triphosphate. Penciclovir triphosphate stays in infected cells for more than 12 hours, suppressing the production of viral DNA in them. The concentration of this substance in uninfected cells is not higher than the minimum detectable, therefore, in therapeutic doses, penciclovir does not affect uninfected cells.

The drug Famciclovir significantly reduces the duration and intensity of postherpetic neuralgia in people with herpes zoster.

The medicine should be taken as soon as possible after the onset of pathological symptoms, since in this case the therapy will be more effective.

"Amiksin"

This drug for the treatment of herpes zoster in adults and children belongs to the category of antiviral medications. It is a fairly effective synthetic inducer that stimulates the natural synthesis in the body of interferons belonging to the alpha, beta and gamma types. The main active element of Amiksina is tiporon. Hepatocytes (liver cells), granulocytes (white blood cells), T-lymphocytes (thymus gland cells) and intestinal epithelial cells respond to its entry into the body.

When the medication enters the body, they begin to actively produce interferons, the maximum amount of which is produced within 24 hours. The drug has immunomodulatory and antiviral properties. Its use is effective in the treatment of many infections of viral origin, including herpes viruses, influenza viruses, respiratory infections, and hepatitis viruses. The antiviral effect of the drug is due to its ability to inhibit the reproduction of pathogens by inhibiting the translation of virus proteins in infected cells.

The drug "Amiksin" for herpes zoster is prescribed according to the following scheme: the first 2 days - 1 tablet, then - 1 tablet once every two days. In total, during a course of therapy the patient should take 10-20 tablets, depending on the severity of the pathological process.

"Viferon"

Since herpes zoster appears when the immune system is weakened, Viferon helps to recover from the disease in a short time. This medication is approved for use in pediatrics and pregnancy. However, despite the high effectiveness of the drug, self-medication is contraindicated.

The main element in the drug is interferon - protein cells that do not allow viruses to multiply. In addition to interferon, the drug contains ascorbic acid and tocopherol-alpha. "Viferon" is produced in the form of ointments, gels and rectal suppositories.

In general, what to apply to herpes zoster and the treatment plan must be agreed upon with your doctor. Suppositories are considered more effective than ointment and gel. They are used rectally, the dosage depends on the weight and age of the patient. For adults, the medication is prescribed in the morning and evening, one suppository at a dose of 500 thousand IU. It is very important to use this remedy for 5 days. Viferon ointment is used externally; it is recommended to lubricate skin rashes.

In order for the treatment of this pathology to be as effective as possible, it is recommended to start taking it as early as possible. In addition, complex therapy is important - a combination of Viferon and antiviral agents.

This medicine has virtually no contraindications and has no side effects. In rare cases, a slight burning sensation may occur at the site of application of the ointment.

Painkillers

Let's find out why painkillers are needed for herpes zoster. In addition to medications that directly eliminate the virus, medications that relieve pain are often prescribed. They are most often prescribed:

• "Analgin";
• "Paracetamol";
• "Nurofen";
• "Indomethacin";
• "Butadion".

If the pain is too severe and does not go away over a long period of time, some anticonvulsants, such as Gabapentin or Diazepam, may be used. In combination with tablets, capsacin-based ointments and lidocaine gels are used.

In severe cases, the doctor may recommend strong painkillers from the category of narcotics or antidepressants. They are “Promedol”, “Fortral”, “Tramal”, etc. Such medications should be used strictly under the supervision of a specialist and only in the presence of appropriate symptoms. What other drugs are used to treat herpes zoster in adults?

Immunomodulatory substances

Herpes zoster must also be treated with immunomodulatory medications. They are prescribed in addition to antiviral treatment, and their action is aimed at inhibiting the vital activity of the zoster virus.

Since the task of such medications is to artificially stimulate the patient’s immune cells, they must be prescribed only in accordance with the indications and used according to the specified scheme.

Drugs in this group can be natural or synthetic. Both of them actively use herpes zoster to treat the disease. When treating pathologies caused by herpes viruses, the following have a good effect:

1. "Lavomax" is a medicine based on the active element tilorone, which is obtained as a result of the synthesis of interferon. The product is produced in tablet form and is contraindicated during lactation, pregnancy and under the age of 18 years. Negative phenomena that occur during administration are insignificant. These are dyspeptic disorders, allergies and short-term chills.
2. “Proteflazid” is a medicine in the form of drops, which is based on flavonoids from wild cereals that can suppress the DNA of viruses. The medication not only improves local immunity, but also has antioxidant properties and helps eliminate lipid oxidation products. The product should be used with caution during pregnancy. Contraindications to it include peptic ulcer of the gastrointestinal tract during an exacerbation and sensitivity to the components.

Medicines for topical use

What else is used to treat herpes zoster? People often suffer not only from pain, but also from severe skin itching that occurs in the area of ​​the rash. Treatment of this pathology requires the use of appropriate medications.

As a rule, they are gels, ointments and creams based on acyclovir:

• "Zovirax";
• "Gerpevir";
• "Virolex";
• "Gerperax" and others.

The category of anti-itching agents for herpes zoster also includes medications containing other active substances. These are, for example, “Viru-Merz Serol”, which is based on tromantadine hydrochloride, “Panavir” with plant extracts, “Fenistil Pencivir” based on penciclovir and others.

Diagnosis of the disease

Laboratory tests play a very important role, as they make it possible to determine with 100% accuracy which virus is the source of the problem.

Tests for herpes zoster:

• Polymerase chain reaction.
• Immunofluorescence analysis.
• Serological method.
• Lymphoblastic transformation test (for babies in the womb).

One of the most common tests is the polymerase chain reaction, for which the contents of the vial and the patient’s blood are taken. The analysis allows you to identify the exact type of herpes virus through the isolation of its DNA and antibodies to the virus.

The classic picture of herpes zoster begins with the appearance of severe shooting pain in the back, lower back or rib area. The victim feels general malaise, weakness, nausea, and sometimes the body temperature may rise slightly. After a few days, fuzzy pinkish spots appear in the areas of pain, and after about a day, blisters appear.

Lasts no more than 3-5 days, during which signs of intoxication of the body appear. During this period, patients complain of severe headaches, chills and weakness. The functioning of the digestive tract may be disrupted, and appetite may disappear. A day or two after the virus is activated, pain appears in the nerve trunks and itching where rashes will subsequently appear.

Rash period

At the initial stage, small pink spots 3-5 mm in diameter with uneven edges appear. Then a herpetic rash appears in these places in the form of grouped serous blisters. You can notice infiltration and enlarged lymph nodes. In severe cases, the rash may contain blood clots. Sometimes the temperature rises up to 39 degrees.

At this stage of herpes, the blisters gradually rupture. The inflammation begins to dry out, redness and swelling disappear. In the place where the rash was previously localized, a crust appears, which goes away on its own. The temperature gradually returns to normal, and other symptoms of intoxication disappear. This period takes from 7 to 8 days, the total duration of the disease is 2.5-3 weeks.

Due to the appearance of highly specific rashes, diagnosing the disease is usually not difficult.

If necessary, the diagnosis can be confirmed by immunofluorescence analysis or polymerase chain reaction.

For reference, differential diagnosis is performed with zosteriform forms of simple herpetic infection. In bullous forms, differential diagnosis should be made with erysipelas, eczema, as well as with skin lesions in some malignant tumors, hematological pathologies, decompensated forms of diabetes (diabetes mellitus), HIV infection, etc.

Epidemiological factors of herpes zoster

Herpes zoster is more common in adults than in children and adolescents.

Attention. It should be noted that the incidence of herpes zoster directly depends on age.

In patients under fifteen years of age, the chance of developing herpes zoster is about five percent, and the chance of developing herpes zoster in older people increases to sixty to seventy percent.

The increase in the incidence of herpes zoster is explained by the natural decrease in the level of immunity with age.

Unlike chickenpox, this disease is not seasonal and is recorded all year round.

For reference. Herpes zoster is contagious, but its index of contagiousness (infectiousness) is quite low. The main danger patients pose is for weakened patients, immunodeficient patients and people who have not previously had chickenpox.

Patients with this infection are contagious for one to two days before the rash appears and until the scabs dry out and fall off.

Transmission of the virus can be carried out by airborne droplets (the virus is contained in nasopharyngeal mucus) and contact (when blisters on the skin rupture, a large amount of virus is released into the environment.

Story

Shingles was known in ancient times, but was considered as an independent disease. At the same time, chickenpox was often mistaken for smallpox for a long time: despite the fact that the clinical differences between these two infections were described back in the 60s of the 18th century, reliable differentiation became possible only at the end of the 19th century.

However, epidemiological data turned out to be the most convincing: the incidence of chickenpox in areas of herpes zoster was significantly higher than the average among the population (in areas of herpes zoster the secondary risk of infection is high). In 1974, Takahashi and his colleagues obtained a weakened Oka strain of the “wild” virus, and in 1980 a clinical trial of a vaccine against chickenpox was started in the United States.

Causes

The reason for the development of the infectious process is the reactivation of varicella zoster.

Risk factors contributing to the reactivation of the pathogen and the development of the disease are:

• age-related decrease in immunity;
• conditions after organ transplantation;
• long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs, treatment with glucocorticoid hormones, use of cytostatic drugs;
• the patient has leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis, malignant neoplasms, congenital and acquired immunodeficiency;
• decreased immunity after stress, hypothermia, infectious diseases;
• injuries;
• alcohol abuse;
• vitamin deficiency, exhaustion, nutritional deficiency, etc.

For reference. Recurrent and generalized herpes zoster occurs mainly in patients with various immunodeficiency conditions.

For reference. Herpes zoster is a secondary endogenous infection. That is, the viruses that cause this disease persist in the nerve ganglia of patients who have had chickenpox (chickenpox).

Viruses are in latent (hidden) form, however, after exposure to provoking factors, the viruses are activated and lead to the development of herpes zoster.

The time intervals between the primary infection (chickenpox) and the onset of herpes zoster vary from person to person. The disease can develop over several months, years, etc.

Attention. In patients with normal immunity, viruses can remain in an inactive latent form throughout their lives.

Herpes zoster rarely recurs after treatment.

Shingles in adults is caused by infection with the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox in humans. Anyone who has ever had chickenpox can develop the disease. After you have had chickenpox and recovered, the chickenpox virus can remain in your nervous system and lie dormant for many years.

The varicella-zoster virus, or varicella-zoster virus, causes two types of diseases: chickenpox and herpes zoster. Typically, the virus enters the body through airborne droplets and contact. Once on the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx, the virus begins to actively multiply and penetrates the bloodstream and lymph flow. The primary disease usually affects children, causing chickenpox, then the pathogen goes dormant (latent state) and remains in the intervertebral and cranial nerve ganglia for a long period of time without the manifestation of clinical symptoms. Reactivation of the virus occurs against the background of weakened immunity in chronic and oncological diseases.

At some point, the virus may begin to actively multiply and migrate along the nerve fibers to the skin, where the rash occurs.

The area of ​​the dermis innervated by this nerve is affected. Most often these are the intercostal and trigeminal nerves.

The disease can occur in people of any age, most cases are diagnosed in the elderly.

Patients at risk also include:

• recent infectious diseases;
• pregnant women;
• who have been taking antibiotics, glucocorticosteroids, or cytostatics for a long time;
• HIV-infected;
• people over 60 years old.

Pain syndrome in elderly patients may persist even after the disappearance of the skin rash (postherpetic neuralgia).

Provoking factors of the disease include:

• stress;
• prolonged hypothermia;
• oncological diseases of the lymphatic system;
• treatment with immunosuppressants;
• diabetes;
• consequences of radiation and chemotherapy;
• treatment with steroid hormones;
• organ and bone marrow transplantation.

Often it is not possible to determine the cause of virus reactivation. Shingles in humans usually does not recur. Recovery occurs without any residual manifestations; in a small number of patients, neuralgia may persist for up to several months or even years.

Relapse of the disease occurs in only 2% of adults against the background of severe immunodeficiency.

There is a high risk of developing herpes zoster in people who have undergone a bone marrow transplant. In 45% of patients, a disseminated form of the disease occurs, in which the rash spreads throughout the body.

Complications often occur in the form of postherpetic neuralgia, bacterial infection, and the formation of necrotic ulcers. Death occurs in 10% of cases.

Features of herpes zoster

After activation of the varicella zoster viruses, ganglioneuritis develops, tissue damage to the intervertebral ganglia and CN (cranial nerves), as well as damage to the dorsal spinal roots.

Tissues of the autonomic ganglia, internal organs, brain and spinal cord may also be affected.

After multiplying in the tissues of the ganglia, the viruses spread along the nerve trunks and penetrate the skin cells. In the skin, under the influence of viruses, changes of an inflammatory-degenerative nature develop, manifested by specific rashes located along the nerve trunks.

For reference. Externally, the skin rashes with herpes zoster are identical to the rashes with chickenpox. The appearance of a herpetic rash with herpes zoster is due to the ability of the pathogen to evade the body's immune response.

A specific feature of herpes zoster is that the rash does not extend beyond the innervation zone of the affected nerve. That is, herpes zoster on the face is located strictly in the zone of innervation of the trigeminal nerve, etc.

It should also be noted that the rashes are unilateral.

Extension of rashes beyond the innervation of the affected nerve can be observed only in the generalized form of the disease (can develop in weakened and immunodeficient patients with hematogenous spread of viruses throughout the body).

Attention. In isolated cases, if the virus does not spread beyond the ganglia, herpes zoster can occur only with symptoms of damage to the nervous system, without the development of a specific rash.

Damage to nerve tissue can occur as ganglioneuritis, amyotrophic radiculoplexitis, myelic syndromes, meningoradiculoneuritis or serous meningitis.

How can you get infected?

The herpes zoster virus is highly contagious (transmissible), so it easily spreads from person to person through airborne droplets, as well as through contact with the skin of a patient. In this case, the liquid contained in the bubbles formed on the epidermis of those infected with chickenpox or shingles penetrates into the body. For the first time, an infected person becomes ill with chickenpox, after which the virus persists in the body for a long time.

An exacerbation of the disease in the form of herpes zoster can occur due to exposure to a number of provoking factors:

• decreased immunity, severe immunodeficiency states;
• taking cytostatics, chemotherapy, cancer;
• autoimmune diseases, pathological disorders in the blood;
• stress, shock;
• poisoning, intoxication;
• prolonged hypothermia;
• old age (over 65 years).

Chickenpox is a common disease in children, and an adult with a history of this disease can activate the dormant virus by contact with the child. Herpes zoster in children under 10 years of age can occur only in the case of congenital disorders of the functioning of cells of the immune system, as well as in cases of chickenpox in the first months of life.

Lichen planus

The clinical picture of herpes zoster is divided into four stages:

• prodromal (appearance of symptoms of preherpetic neuralgia);
• stage of appearance of a specific rash;
• convalescence (the stage of the disease after the rash disappears);
• stage of residual manifestations.

For reference. The main early manifestation of the disease is radicular pain. At the same time, the pain syndrome is characterized by intensity and paroxysmal attacks. A common symptom of the disease is also increased skin sensitivity.

In children, pain symptoms are less pronounced.

During the period of prodromal manifestations, patients are concerned about constant weakness, feverish and intoxication symptoms, chills, lethargy, muscle and joint pain.

In the area of ​​the affected nerve there is a feeling of tingling, numbness and burning.

The duration of the period of prodromal manifestations can range from one to seven days.

During the period of pronounced clinical symptoms, the appearance of specific herpetic eruptions on the skin is noted. Initially, pinkish-red spots appear on the skin. Then, within a few hours, they turn into tightly grouped vesicles (vesicles) filled with clear serous contents.

The lymph nodes in the area of ​​innervation of the affected nerve are enlarged, not fused with the surrounding tissues, mobile and moderately painful.

Visually, rashes with herpes zoster resemble bunches of grapes or garlands.

The size of the bubbles rarely exceeds two to three millimeters. The skin in the affected area is hyperemic and swollen. The most pronounced edematous symptoms with herpes zoster are on the face.

As the disease progresses, the contents of the vesicles become cloudy.

At the rash stage, patients are bothered by severe itching, pain and burning in the rash area.

As the vesicular rash dries, body temperature normalizes and the severity of intoxication symptoms decreases. Drying of the vesicles is accompanied by the appearance of crusts.

For reference. Typically, the rash goes away completely within two to three weeks. The formation of ulcers and scars is not typical.

Young patients may also experience symptoms of an acute respiratory infection (cough, sore throat, weakness, lethargy, loss of appetite, etc.).

With the development of herpes zoster on the face, herpetic lesions of the eyes may occur, manifested by:

• herpetic keratitis,
• conjunctivitis,
• iridocyclitis,
• iritis,
• keratitis,
• keratoconjunctivitis,
• sclerites, etc.

In weakened and immunodeficient patients, the disease can occur in disseminated forms. In this case, on the second to seventh day of the disease, the patient’s condition worsens, and the rash begins to spread beyond the innervation zone of the affected nerve.

In generalized forms, in addition to the typical small rash, a single-chamber and multi-chamber (formed by several blisters) bullous rash may appear. The size of the bullae can reach several centimeters in diameter.

In severe cases of the disease, the contents of the vesicles and bullae become hemorrhagic. Necrotic skin lesions may also occur. With necrotic and bullous skin lesions, after healing of erosions, scars remain.

Attention. In severe cases of the disease, general cerebral and meningeal symptoms may be observed (vomiting, headaches, photophobia, muscle weakness, dizziness, etc.).

A rare symptom of the disease is herpetic pneumonia.

When the brain is infected, stroke-like vasculitis can occur, leading to the development of paraplegia, paralysis and hemiparesis. Hemorrhagic necrosis of the brain may also develop.

Signs of brain damage may appear from the second to the eighth day after the rash appears.

In the area of ​​a specific herpetic rash, burning paroxysmal radicular pain and increased skin sensitivity are noted. A specific symptom is increased pain at night.

For reference. The pain does not spread beyond the innervation zone of the affected nerve. The maximum severity of pain is observed on the sixth to fifteenth day of the disease.

Herpes zoster on the body - features of the rash

Due to dystrophic-necrotic inflammation in the skin, specific cavities filled with inflammatory fluid are formed in the epidermal thickness.

Vesicular rashes with herpes zoster are unilocular. The contents of the vesicles are initially transparent. Subsequently, due to the penetration of desquamated keratinocytes, neutrophil cells, etc. into it. the contents of the vesicles become cloudy.

After the inflammatory vesicles dry, crusts form. The formation of ulcers and scars after the crusts fall off is not typical.

Attention. Most often, scars remain after violent damage to blisters and crusts as a result of scratching them.

When vesicles damage the ocular conjunctiva or mucous membranes of the genital organs, the formation of weeping erosive surfaces occurs.

The most common location of vesicles is the zone innervated by the trigeminal nerve. The thoracic, cervical, lumbosacral and cervicothoracic segments are also often affected.

In approximately ten percent of cases, the rash may spread slightly beyond the innervation of the affected nerve.

Treatment of herpes zoster can be carried out in a hospital setting. Weakened and immunodeficient patients, patients with herpetic eye lesions, severe, generalized and complicated infection are subject to hospitalization.

Treatment of herpes zoster in elderly people with cardiovascular, neurological pathologies, diabetes, etc. It is also preferable to carry out in a hospital setting.

Attention! How to treat herpes zoster is decided solely by the attending physician. Prescribe yourself pills for herpes zoster on the recommendation of friends, based on information from the Internet, etc. unacceptable.

Treatment of herpes zoster in children and adults does not differ.

When the disease occurs, the patient always experiences pain, the intensity of which ranges from barely perceptible to excruciating, debilitating pain, which stops for a short period under the influence of drugs. Most often, pain appears in the area of ​​skin rashes corresponding to the affected nerves. The intensity of the pain does not always correspond to the severity of the skin rash.

After the exacerbation ceases, 10-20% of patients develop postherpetic neuralgia, in which pain persists for a long time - from several months to several years. Pain is associated with viruses affecting the intervertebral ganglia of the cranial spinal nerves and dorsal roots of the spinal cord. A severe course of the disease is recorded when the spinal cord, brain, and its membranes are damaged. When the autonomic ganglia are damaged, the function of internal organs is disrupted.

Most cases of shingles in adults resolve on their own, even without treatment. However, effective treatment exists and can significantly relieve the symptoms of the disease and also prevent complications.

The goals of treatment for Herpes zoster are:

1. Speed ​​up recovery;
2. Reduce pain;
3. Prevent complications;
4. Reduce the likelihood of developing postherpetic neuralgia.
5. Drug treatment is necessary for people with a high risk of complications or a protracted course of the disease: people with immunodeficiencies, patients
6. over 50 years old. The benefit of antiviral therapy in healthy and young people has not been proven.

Uncomplicated cases are treated at home (outpatient). Hospitalization is indicated for all people with suspected disseminated process, with damage to the eyes and brain.

Pain relief is one of the key points in the treatment of herpes zoster. Adequate pain relief makes it possible to breathe normally, move and reduce psychological discomfort. In the United States, narcotic analgesics such as oxycodone are used for pain relief.

Non-narcotic analgesics are used:

• Dexketoprofen
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Ketorolac
• Ketoprofen

For post-herpetic neuralgia, capsaicin-based products are effective. The drug of choice for relieving severe pain and preventing post-zosteric neuralgia is amantadine sulfate due to its virostatic properties and the ability to block peripheral NMDA receptors at the stage of pain impulse transmission.

Acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir are used to treat shingles. Valacyclovir is a metabolic precursor of acyclovir and is completely converted into it by liver enzymes. The acyclovir molecule has the ability to integrate into viral DNA, thus stopping its replication and multiplication of viral particles. Famciclovir is transformed in the body into penciclovir and acts similarly.

The effectiveness and safety of these drugs has been proven by numerous studies. When starting therapy within 72 hours from the appearance of the first rash, they can reduce the severity of pain, reduce the duration of the disease and the likelihood of postherpetic neuralgia. Famciclovir and valacyclovir have a more convenient regimen than acyclovir, but they are less studied and several times more expensive.

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants (anticonvulsants) are commonly used for epilepsy, but they also have the ability to reduce neuropathic pain. For Herpes zoster, some of them can be used, such as gabapentin and pregabalin.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroid medications reduce inflammation and itching. Some studies have shown their ability, in combination with antiviral agents, to reduce symptoms of mild to moderate forms of the disease.

Despite these data, corticosteroids have not gained acceptance for the treatment of herpes zoster due to safety reasons. Currently, these drugs are not recommended for use in this disease.

Prevention

There is no specific prevention of herpes virus disease. It can only consist of maintaining the natural human immune system and increasing the body's resistance.

This is facilitated by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, giving up bad habits, an active physical regime, following the rules of a healthy diet, adequate sleep, hardening, walks in the fresh air, avoiding the aggressive influence of ultraviolet rays, and a harmonious psycho-emotional state of a person.

Herpes zoster - consequences

A quick and painless recovery from herpetic lichen is due to the general good health of the patient. A young and strong body with normal immunity copes better with the virus. In general, this disease rarely goes away without any complications - in only 30% of cases. Neuralgic pain after a virus infection can last from six months to several years.

The consequences of herpes zoster can be very serious:

• transverse myelitis with transition to motor paralysis;
• heart failure;
• progression of oncological processes;
• Ramsay-Hunt symptom: paralysis of facial muscles, complete or partial hearing loss;
• damage to the oculomotor nerves;
• brain lesions: encephalitis, serous meningitis, meningoencephalitis;
• blindness caused by retinal necrosis.

Improperly treated herpes zoster can develop a relapsing course with subsequent coverage of other nerve trunks. In addition to a neurologist and a skin clinic, you should definitely visit an immunologist for proper correction of immunity.

Let's look at what complications after shingles can arise in more detail:

• when lichen forms in the eyes, relapse can lead to blindness;
• after damage to the skin areas, pyoderma is possible, when the rash begins to fester;
• after lichen occurs on the limbs or in the area of ​​the nervous system that is connected to them, sometimes paralysis occurs;
• internal disorders of the body may have consequences such as hepatitis, meningoencephalitis, pneumonia, paralysis of the respiratory system;
• with relapse of lichen with damage to the facial nerve, paralysis of this nervous system is possible;
• relapses in women during pregnancy can lead to miscarriages or pathologies of the child’s brain.

So, we have looked at the causes and treatment of herpes zoster and, to summarize, it is worth recalling that in young people with a good immune system, the disease may not require treatment at all. Do not forget that shingles is primarily herpes, which means that in order to prevent its recurrences, it is necessary to carefully approach the issue of a healthy lifestyle and methods of preventing the immune system as a whole.

In addition, when a herpetic lesion manifests itself, there is a danger of other diseases or individual characteristics of the body, which does not allow resorting to standard treatment methods. Therefore, with herpes zoster, both symptoms and treatment in adults and children are individualized.

Two to three weeks from the onset of the disease (after the typical clinical picture subsides), postherpetic neuralgia develops.

The main symptom of neuralgia is paroxysmal unbearable pain, intensifying at night. Subsidence and complete disappearance of pain occurs within two to three months.

Chronic postherpetic neuralgia can be observed in immunodeficient patients.

In complicated cases, the prognosis of the disease and its consequences depend on the severity of damage to nerve tissue.

Attention: Patients with herpetic eye lesions may develop corneal ulcers, leading to decreased vision, even blindness.

Lichen is contagious: how is lichen transmitted?

If a contact person had chickenpox in childhood and has developed a strong immunity, then the risk of contracting herpes zoster is practically reduced to a minimum. However, in people who have not previously had chickenpox, contact with someone with shingles can lead to the development of chickenpox. This risk especially increases in children and adults over fifty years of age with low immunity.

It should be noted that herpes zoster is contagious during the period of herpetic rashes. During the period of healing and formation of crusts, this disease ceases to be dangerous.

Herpes virus infection can have different clinical manifestations, especially in people with reduced immunity. Some patients may develop shingles on the face, others on the ears or eyes. In this regard, doctors have adopted the following classification of atypical manifestations of the virus:

• Ophthalmic herpes - characterized by severe lesions of the mucous membranes of the eyes, eyelids and branches of the trigeminal nerve.
• Ramsay-Hunt syndrome is a lesion of the facial nerves that leads to paralysis of the facial muscles. Characteristic symptoms: typical rashes in the oropharynx and ears.
• Lichen motor - expressed by muscle weakness, accompanied by damage to the neck or shoulders.
• Abortive herpes – characterized by the absence of foci of inflammation and pain.
• Hemorrhagic form - the patient may develop blisters with bloody contents, after healing of which scars remain.
• Bullous type of lichen - manifests itself in the form of large herpetic rashes with jagged edges.
• Gangrenous herpes - provokes tissue necrosis with subsequent scar formation.
• Disseminated lichen - herpes zoster affects the skin on both sides of the body.

How to avoid infection

The contagiousness of shingles has been sorted out. But how to avoid infection and further development of pathology? To do this, you need to follow a few simple recommendations. First of all, if you are in the same room with an infected person, try to exclude all possible contacts with him. Do not share towels, hygiene products, dishes or other items.

How to Avoid Shingles

Sanitary and hygienic requirements during treatment

In adults, herpes zoster may resolve spontaneously and without medical intervention. However, for people with weakened immune systems and elderly patients, treatment for herpes zoster should begin as soon as possible. This allows you to alleviate the severity of the condition and prevent post-herpetic complications.

Among antiviral drugs, adult patients are prescribed tablets for 7–10 days:

• Zovirax – 2 g/day.
• Acyclovir – 0.8 g x 5 r. in a day.
• Famciclovir – 0.5 g x 3 r. in a day.
• Valaciclovir – 1 g x 3 r. per day.

To relieve pain in the initial stages of herpes zoster, the following is prescribed:

• Aspirin.
• Ibuprofen.
• Anileridine.
• Diclofenac.
• Sufentanil.
• Paracetamol.

Antidepressants for the treatment of HSV-3 with prolonged pain syndrome are prescribed as follows:

• Duloxetine.
• Citalopram.
• Mirtazapine.
• Doxepin.
• Maprotiline.
• Clomipramine.
• Escitalopram.
• Venlafaxine.

How to treat herpes zoster to eliminate specific rashes? Experts prescribe medications for external use in addition to antiviral drugs for internal use.

To dry and disinfect wounds left after opening herpetic elements, it is allowed to use Castellani liquid and brilliant green, boric acid and Calamine, Fukortsin and Chlorhexidine lotions. Treatment is varied with zinc preparations (Badigeon, Tsindol) and a strong solution of potassium permanganate.

At the first signs of the disease, you should consult a dermatologist. At the doctor's discretion, a consultation with a neurologist may be prescribed. Laboratory tests of blood and tissue samples are performed to confirm the diagnosis.

If the disease is severe, an examination by an immunologist may be required.

A sign that the disease is receding is the formation of crusts on the damaged areas. The skin underneath the rash begins to return to its normal color. A person is considered completely healthy after all the scabs have come off. This period lasts several weeks.

Treatment of the disease in adults is carried out comprehensively and is aimed at creating local immunity, as well as alleviating pain.

Herpes zoster is a viral disease; in its treatment, a specific drug is used that affects the pathogen (Acyclovir and its analogues). Taking such drugs has a detrimental effect on the growth and reproduction of the virus, and also contributes to its removal from the body. This drug can be used orally (tablets) and externally (ointment).

Acyclovir is taken to treat shingles

1. To relieve pain in adults, painkillers (nemisulides, analgesics) are used. Only a doctor can select a medicine. Because these drugs have many contraindications.
2. The course of general therapy necessarily includes immunomodulators to increase the body's protective functions, for example, Cycloferon.
3. If necessary, anticonvulsants are prescribed.
4. To alleviate the patient's psycho-emotional state, sedatives may be prescribed. A state of stress can aggravate the patient's condition.
5. To treat damaged areas of the skin, use brilliant greens or calendula tincture.

Herpetic rash is treated with calendula tincture and brilliant green

Folk remedies

If desired, in addition to traditional treatment, you can also use folk remedies. But these methods are in addition to the main treatment and cannot replace it completely.

Water is an excellent environment for the spread of infections. In addition, you can damage the inflamed area. Therefore, the choice of a traditional treatment method for adults must be approached carefully. Below are several proven recipes aimed at strengthening the immune system and external treatment for the purpose of disinfection and drying of damaged areas.

In the treatment of herpes zoster on the body, it is important to pay attention to the treatment of the rash. However, the use of ointments is not recommended. Antiseptics must be applied in liquid form. Chlorhexedine is best suited for this. It can be used in any period of the disease. The product does not cause any discomfort.

In addition to treating rashes, we must not forget about personal hygiene measures. It is necessary to take a shower daily. However, detergents and washcloths should not be used on the affected areas of the body. It is better to simply rinse the affected areas with running water at room temperature. It is not recommended to use cold or hot water.

Healing of shingles in a person and its treatment with medications will not be effective without selecting the right clothing. It is best to choose natural materials - cotton or linen. Do not wear tight or tight-fitting underwear - it can cause irritation and lead to the appearance of blisters on adjacent areas of the skin.

In adults:

• Inflammation in the affected areas;
• A rash with defined boundaries between the diseased and healthy areas;
• Change in skin color, itching, flaking, dryness.

Ringworm, shingles and rosacea are contagious. Contacts should be limited during this period.

Initial symptoms in children:

If treatment is started at the initial signs of the disease, the person’s lichen disappears after 1-2 weeks. The photo shows the first skin lesions.

Is it possible to get sick again?

When the varicella zoster virus enters the human body, it causes chickenpox (varicella). However, after recovery, this virus is not eliminated, but remains in the human body in a latent state. This virus lurks asymptomatically in nerve cells in the dorsal roots of the spinal cord.

In ten percent of people, a relapse of herpes zoster is observed in the presence of the following pathologies:

• HIV infection;
• AIDS;
• oncological diseases;
• diabetes;
• lymphocytic leukemia

In this regard, to reduce the risk of relapse of the disease, as well as to prevent the development of herpes zoster, a vaccine against the Varicella-zoster virus was released in 2006. This vaccine showed good results, reducing the risk of developing the disease by 51%.

Herpes zoster - drugs

The drugs acyclovir, valacyclovir and penciclovir are used to treat this disease.

In severe forms of the disease, acyclovir drugs are administered intravenously.

If the patient has previously been repeatedly treated with acyclovir drugs, it is preferable to start treatment with valacyclovir drugs.

Dipyridamole preparations are also used as pathogenetic treatment. Additionally, dehydration agents (furosemide preparations) are used.

For reference. Immunomodulatory agents are prescribed according to indications.

At the stage of postherpetic neuralgia, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, sedatives, and B vitamins are used.

The vesicles are treated locally with preparations of cindol, brilliant green, etc.

Attention. Antibacterial agents are indicated only when a secondary bacterial component is attached.

In severe forms of the disease, anticoagulant therapy, glucocorticosteroid hormones are prescribed, dehydration therapy is carried out, etc.

Vitamin therapy and diet

Also, for shingles, it is recommended to take the following vitamins to strengthen the immune system:

• Vitamin A;
• Vitamin E;
• Vitamin C.

These vitamins, being antioxidants, reduce the ability of cells to respond to inflammation and also help increase the body's defenses.

Vitamins from this group improve epithelial regeneration, participate in the formation of antibodies, as well as in all metabolic processes.

It should also be taken into account that during treatment, a patient with herpes zoster is recommended to have a gentle diet rich in nutrients, vitamins and microelements. It is recommended to boil or steam food, and you should also reduce the consumption of salty, fatty and fried foods.

• dairy products (milk, kefir, butter, cottage cheese);
• vegetables (beets, broccoli, carrots, eggplants, zucchini, pumpkin, tomatoes, peppers, onions);
• white meat;
• seafood (salmon, pike perch, herring);
• nuts (peanuts, pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cashews);
• fruits (grapes, apricots, apples, kiwis, plums, citrus fruits);
• cereals (oatmeal, wheat, barley);
• legumes (peas, beans);
• green tea, tea with rosehip or raspberry.

Prodromal, characterized by general malaise, neuralgic pain of varying intensity, this lasts on average 2-4 days:

1. Headache
2. Low-grade body temperature, less often fever up to 39C
3. Chills, weakness
4. Dyspeptic disorders, gastrointestinal dysfunction
5. Pain, itching, burning, tingling in the area of ​​the peripheral nerves in the area where the rash will later appear.
6. Most often, during an acute process, regional lymph nodes become painful and enlarged.
7. In severe cases of the disease, urinary retention and other disorders of certain systems and organs may occur.

After the temperature decreases, other general intoxication disorders also weaken.

The time when rashes characteristic of shingles appear. The symptoms and nature of the rash depend on the severity of the inflammatory process. At first, the rashes look like pockets of pink spots 2-5 mm in size, between which there are areas of healthy skin.

1. In the typical form of the disease, the next day, small, closely grouped vesicles and vesicles with transparent serous contents form in their place, which becomes cloudy after 3-4 days.
2. In severe gangrenous form of herpes, the contents of the vesicles may be mixed with blood and black in color. Herpetic rashes have a wave-like course, as with chickenpox, that is, fresh rashes with vesicular elements appear at intervals of several days. The bubbles seem to crawl from one place to another, encircling the body, hence the name of this disease.

In mild forms of the inflammatory process, the transformation of skin nodules into pustules does not form and their ulceration does not occur, and the manifestation of herpes is also possible only of a neurological nature - pain without a rash, otherwise it is also called herpetic neuralgia and is often mistaken for manifestations of intercostal neuralgia, osteochondrosis or heart pain. And therefore, inadequate treatment may be prescribed.

While taking a shower (and doing this if you have herpes zoster is not prohibited), do not rub the rash. If possible, avoid taking baths with aromatic oils and salts.

Development of herpes zoster.

To reduce the severity of pain, you can apply cold to the affected areas, for example, a heating pad with ice. To relieve itching, it is recommended to make lotions with menthol or calamine.

If possible, keep the affected skin areas as unclothed as possible. It is better that contact with clothing is minimized, and contact with air, on the contrary, is maximized.

There is no need to lubricate the rash with brilliant green, iodine and other similar substances - you will recover longer. There will be no effect from topical use of antiviral ointments.

Remember 3 main rules:

• do not panic;
• do not self-medicate;
• consult a doctor promptly.

To reduce the severity of pain, you can apply cold to the affected areas, for example, a heating pad with ice.

Starting the fight against the virus in a timely manner allows you to quickly achieve positive results and prevent the development of complications. It is important that the treatment is carried out under the supervision of an experienced specialist. Otherwise, there is a high probability of developing complications.

In what cases is hospitalization necessary?

Treatment of herpes zoster can be carried out both at home, after prescribing appropriate drug therapy, and in a hospital setting.

Usually, herpes zoster is quite mild and requires following all the doctor’s recommendations, as well as periodic monitoring - you need to visit a doctor once a week. To ensure the effectiveness of the selected therapy.

However, in some cases, treatment of herpes zoster should occur exclusively in a hospital setting:

• pregnant women;
• adults whose families have children under two years of age;
• herpes zoster with any complications from the nervous system;
• disease with the development of complications from the eyeball;
• disseminated form of the disease - affects all parts of the body;
• severe form of herpes zoster;
• damage to the first branch of the trigeminal nerve;
• severe renal failure;
• the presence of chronic diseases of the body in the stage of decompensation.

People with immunosuppression also require inpatient treatment. In particular, these are HIV-infected individuals and people with other acquired or congenital immunodeficiency conditions.

Classification: types, types, forms

The typical course of herpes zoster is described above. 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.

Experts divide the disease into 5 types:

• abortive - with characteristic nodular formations on the affected skin surface;
• cystic (also called bullous) - characterized by especially large, pigeon-egg-sized bubbles;
• hemorrhagic - the traditional standard for the course of the disease in this case is disrupted by the appearance of small hemorrhages on the skin;
• 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.

Depending on the location of the rash, experts also distinguish some forms of the disease. For example, herpes zoster ophthalmicus is an ocular form; the rash appears near one eye and in the “surrounding areas” (on the forehead, cheek, nose area).

In addition, the ear form can be diagnosed, in which the infection affects the facial nerve node and the facial muscles are injured. Signs of the disease are observed in the ear and mouth.

The disease is also 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).