Shingles is a condition caused due to the reactivation of a virus called the herpes zoster virus or the varicella zoster virus. Those wondering what are shingles need to know these refer to localized skin rashes that are filled with fluid. The rash in shingles tends to erupt on patch of reddish skin. This virus is also responsible for causing chicken pox in childhood.

Individuals wondering what are shingles need to realise that the varicella virus tends to remain in the body in a latent or dormant state. This virus tends to wake up after years following the chicken pox infection. The virus travels along the nerves on the skin and results in shingles. Many of the patients who suffer from shingles are more than 60 years of age.

While getting information on what are shingles it is important to know that any person who has suffered from chicken pox carries the shingles virus. People with weakened immune system are at a greater risk of getting this condition. Some other factors that can result in the virus reactivating include fatigue, stress and radiation treatments. To understanding what are shingles it is important to learn more about the symptoms. Those suffering from shingles often tend to experience increased sensitivity of the skin and pain on one side or area of the body. Individuals suffering from shingles may also experience increased itching, aching, tingling. Around 1 to 3 days after the pain a rash appears and this consists of blisters and red bumps that erupt on the skin.

After around 10 to 12 days these bumps become filled with pus and then they form scabs. The rash tends to disappear after the scabs fall off and this may result in scarring in some cases. The diagnosis of this condition is fairly easy since the rash tends to follow a distinctive pattern. However in some cases the doctor may conduct some tests that include the tzanck smear test in which a blister is opened and the fluid and skin cells are put on a slide. This is then examined under the microscope.

Some other tests include antibody tests like the direct fluorescent antibody test along with skin biopsy. While understanding what are shingles learning about the treatment options is crucial. Antiviral medication is used as a part of the treatment plan for shingles. Along with antiviral medication pain medication is also prescribed for management and reduction of the pain.

Other treatment options include applying cool compresses to the weeping blisters. This can help soothe the blisters. It is important to keep the area of the blisters clean. Petroleum jelly can be applied to help in the healing process. Those suffering from shingles should wear loose clothes and avoid direct skin contact with other people. While understanding what are shingles learning about the medication in detail is also important. Pain medication like ibuprofen, acetaminophen can be prescribed along with topical creams to reduce the itching. Postherpetic neuralgia can be treated with opioids. The antiviral medication prescribed includes calacyclovir, famciclovir and acyclovir.