Shingles is a problematic skin rash that is caused by the varicella zoster virus. This virus also causes chicken pox. In fact after a person has had chicken pox the virus remains within the nervous system and in the presence of certain circumstances like immune deficiency and emotional stress the virus is reactivated. The rash is clearly visible and can be identified from the pictures of shingles.

People who have had chickenpox are at a risk of developing shingles. Before the development of rash people tend to experience increased sensitivity of skin along with a burning pain. Pictures of shingles indicate that the shingles rash starts off with small blisters that erupt on red base and new blisters continue to form for a period of around three to five days.

Patients tend to experience fever, malaise, headache in the initial stages along with a feeling of tingling and pricking on the skin. The pictures of shingles indicate that the rash is most commonly observed on one side of the torso but in some cases it may also be observed on other areas of the body. In the initial stages the rash has a belt like pattern. Later the rash tends to become vesicular and small blisters form.

Pictures of shingles reflect that with time the blisters pop and with this the area begins to ooze. Eventually the affected area tends to crust over and finally heal in a period of around 7 to 10 days. In some cases the severe blistering may lead to scarring and eventual discoloration of the skin. This outbreak may last around three to four weeks. After the crusting of the blisters the virus cannot spread any more. There are numerous treatments for this condition.

The drugs used for the treatment of shingles include acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir. Pictures of shingles indicate that the duration of the rash along with its severity can effectively reduce if the drugs are started within a period of 72 hours of the appearance of this rash. Pain medication is required to be taken and the patient should keep the area clean.

Pictures of shingles indicate that in some cases certain complications may occur. The blisters may get infected with bacteria resulting in cellulitis. In this bacterial infection the skin may become red, warm, tender and firm. Red streaks may be observed around the wound and certain antibiotics are needed to treat this condition. If shingles affect the face particularly the nose and the forehead it can be a problematic complication and may lead to loss of vision. Immediate medical help should be sought in that case.

Postherpetic neuralgia is a common complication observed in this condition and in this the pain related to the condition is experienced for more than a month after the rash goes away. Certain medications can help in reducing the pain associated with these complications. Certain antiviral agents can help reduce the extent as well as the duration of the postherpetic neuralgia. It is advisable for patients suffering from shingles to wear loose clothing and use cool compresses for relief.