Shingles: Varicella Zoster Virus

Varicella Zoster virus, or commonly called Shingles virus, is a viral infection that can cause a very painful rash and blisters. Shingles effects anyone who has had chicken pox in their lifetime. The virus that causes chickenpox stays in your system to remain dormant or inactive and then as we age and our immune systems decrease, it can reactive itself to cause shingles. Shingles are not life threatening, but can cause several weeks of painful skin rash and blisters and could lead to long term complications such as, Postherpetic Neuralgia, neurological problems, skin infections and vision loss. Postherpetic Neuralgia occurs when damaged nerve fibers send confused messages of pain from your skin to your brain. Shingles may cause inflammation of the brain, causing facial paralysis or problems with hearing or balance. Vision loss, which can occur if shingles presents around the eyes, causing eye infections that can result in vision loss.