Herpes zoster or shingles is a viral disease causing skin rash and blisters.

Causes

• Reactivation of varicella zoster virus acquired during chicken pox infection

Symptoms
Symptoms usually affect one side of the body and may include:

• Pain
• Burning
• Tingling or numbness
• Itching
• Red rash followed by blisters in narrow bands especially around the waist
• Sensitivity to touch

Treatment
Herpes zoster usually gets cured on its own. Treatment may include:

• Antiviral medication to reduce pain and course of disease
• Corticosteroids to reduce swelling and pain
• Topical creams or lotions to sooth the skin

Prevention