Overview
Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. In Korea, shingles primarily affects older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems, and early treatment can prevent complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.
What is Herpes Zoster?
Herpes zoster is a painful skin rash that usually appears on one side of the body, following a specific nerve distribution. The virus remains dormant in nerve tissue after a chickenpox infection and can reactivate years later. Both men and women of all ages can be affected, though risk increases with age.
Symptoms
- Pain, burning, or tingling sensation before the rash appears
- Red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters
- Blisters that crust over after 7–10 days
- Fever and general fatigue in some cases
- Sensitivity to touch in the affected area
- Persistent nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia) after rash resolution
Causes
- Reactivation of dormant varicella-zoster virus
- Age-related decline in immunity
- Stress or physical trauma
- Chronic illnesses that weaken the immune system
- Immunosuppressive medications
Risk Factors
- Age over 50
- History of chickenpox infection
- Weakened immune system due to illness, medications, or stress
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes or cancer
Complications
- Postherpetic neuralgia (persistent nerve pain)
- Bacterial skin infections at the rash site
- Vision loss if shingles affect the eye (ophthalmic shingles)
- Neurological complications, including meningitis or encephalitis (rare)
Prevention
- Vaccination: Shingles vaccines are available in Korea for adults over 50 and high-risk individuals
- Healthy lifestyle to support immune function
- Prompt treatment of any illness to prevent immune suppression
- Stress management techniques
Treatment Options in Korea
Treatment focuses on reducing symptoms, speeding recovery, and preventing complications:
- Antiviral therapy:
- Medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, ideally started within 72 hours of rash onset
- Pain management:
- Analgesics, topical creams, or nerve pain medications for postherpetic neuralgia
- Specialized care:
- Dermatology and infectious disease departments at Samsung Medical Center, Seoul National University Hospital, and Asan Medical Center
- Follow-up care:
- Monitoring for complications, especially in older adults or immunocompromised patients
- Vaccination programs:
- Recommended for adults over 50 to prevent shingles and its complications
With early intervention and antiviral therapy in Korea, shingles can be effectively managed, and long-term complications minimized.
