Shingles is a disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus does not completely disappear but remains dormant in nerve cells. When the body's immunity weakens, the virus may reactivate, triggering shingles.
The latent state of the virus in nerve cells is the basis for the development of shingles. When the body's immunity declines, such as due to aging, excessive stress, chronic diseases, or certain medications that weaken the immune system, the latent virus can be activated. The activated virus travels along nerve fibers to the skin surface, causing pain, burning, or tingling, followed by erythema and blisters. Shingles typically appears along one side of the body and rarely crosses the midline.
The occurrence of shingles is closely related to individual differences. Everyone's physical condition and immune system function are different, so even if someone has had chickenpox, not everyone will develop shingles. The nature and duration of shingles pain also vary from person to person, making self-diagnosis complicated. If you experience symptoms resembling shingles, especially if the pain is severe or accompanied by a high fever, you should seek medical attention immediately for timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment.
[Prevention Tips:]
1. Maintain healthy lifestyle habits, including sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and moderate exercise, to strengthen your immune system.
2. Stress reduction can be achieved through meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques.
3. Get vaccinated regularly, especially for the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Consider getting the shingles vaccine.
