The dermatovenerologist named the main reasons for the activation of shingles

Shingles is still surrounded by many myths and misconceptions. Some believe that it can be infected, while others believe that it occurs "on a nervous basis." As explained to Izvestia on October 17 by a dermatovenerologist, cosmetologist at SL Clinic) (Kazan) Nail Evdokimova, the disease is much more complicated than it seems at first glance, and is directly related to the chickenpox virus.

"It is impossible to get shingles directly from a patient. However, it is possible to become infected with the Varicella Zoster virus (VZV)," the specialist emphasizes.

The doctor explained that a patient with shingles remains contagious only during the period when fresh blisters are present on the skin, since the liquid inside them contains an active virus. If a person who has not previously had chickenpox comes into contact with this liquid, they may become infected with chickenpox. After the blisters are crusted (usually after a week), the risk of virus transmission disappears. At the same time, the specialist clarified that, unlike chickenpox, the shingles virus is practically not transmitted by airborne droplets.

"Chickenpox does not provide sterile immunity. After the disease, VZV does not disappear, but "falls asleep" in the nerve ganglia (clusters of nerve cells). When the immune defense is weakened, the virus can reactivate, and a person will get shingles. According to various estimates, up to 20% of people who have had chickenpox will experience this disease during their lifetime," Evdokimova explained.

Chickenpox in adults and children: symptoms, treatment

A strong increase in cases has been detected in Russia

It is estimated that up to 20% of people who have had chickenpox will experience this disease at least once in their lives. The main factor is age. The peak incidence occurs in people over the age of 50, and the risk increases significantly with each passing decade. Immune aging is not the only reason for virus activation. Other proven triggering factors include immunosuppression, chronic diseases, stress, and severe injuries.

"Although there are no large randomized studies, clinical observations and cohort studies often associate acute physical or severe psychological stress with an episode of shingles, probably due to its depressing effect on the immune system," Evdokimova added.

Reckoning: there are not enough medicines for rheumatic diseases in the regions

The problem is related to the late conclusion of auctions or incorrect accounting of patients, experts say.

The doctor noted that shingles is characterized by three main signs: the rash usually appears only on one side of the body and follows the nerve line. Patients often experience burning, shooting or stabbing pain, itching and hypersensitivity, and pain can occur one to three days before the appearance of rashes, which is an important diagnostic sign. The rashes themselves go through several stages — from redness to the formation of bubbles, which then open and become covered with crusts.

Evdokimova concluded that it is especially important to consult a doctor in the first 72 hours after the onset of symptoms, since it is during this therapeutic period that antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, valacyclovir or famciclovir are most effective. Early initiation of treatment helps to shorten the duration of the disease, reduce the severity of symptoms, reduce the risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia and accelerate skin healing.

Marina Gureeva, Associate Professor of the Department of Pediatric Diseases at the Medical Faculty of the State University of Education, a dermatovenerologist, told Izvestia on May 28 that sunburn, severe stress, and prolonged exposure to high or low temperatures can affect the occurrence of rosacea. A diet with the consumption of large amounts of hot food and drinks can also lead to the disease.

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