Herpes Zoster

1. Definition of "herpes zoster" (shingles).

1. It is a painful infection of the nerve structure caused by varicella virus, the same virus that causes chicken pox.

2. It is acute and inflammatory, and usually appears at the trunk of the body.

2. Factors that increase the risk of herpes zoster.

1. Age (occurs primarily in people older than 40; incidence increases with age).

2. Immunosuppression.

3. Lack of immunity to chicken pox.

3. Signs and symptoms of herpes zoster.

1. Pain.

1. May range from mild to very sever.

2. Usually lasts one to four weeks, but may last months or years.

2. Clear, blister-type eruptions on a reddened base.

1. Becomes scaly and crusted in five to ten days.

2. Usually affects only one side of body.

3. Itchiness.

4. Tiredness.

5. Fever.

6. Depression.

4. Measures to manage herpes zoster.

1. Decrease level of pain.

1. Take medication as ordered to relieve pain and itching.

2. Engage in diversional activities.

3. Get adequate rest.

4. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.

5. Take lukewarm tub baths (lukewarm water is soothing).

2. Decrease possibility of infection.

1. Protect skin from scratching, rubbing, or any additional trauma.

2. Wash skin gently and pat dry to promote cleanliness and decrease trauma.

3. Wash hands frequently to prevent spread of infection.

5. Measures to prevent shingles by decreasing body's susceptibility to it.

1. Eat a well-balanced diet. (Provide "Daily Food Guide" handout.)

2. Get adequate rest.

3. Avoid stress. (Provide "Relaxation Technique" handout.)

4. Exercise regularly.

6. Possible complications of herpes zoster.

1. Secondary infections.

2. Eye infection.

3. Scarring.

4. Neuralgia (nerve pain after skin eruptions have healed).