Shingles (herpes zoster)

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox – varicella. Once in the body, the virus lies dormant in clumps of nerves near the spine called ganglia. When the virus erupts from its slumber, it travels along the sensory neurons, causing pain. It invades the skin where the neurons end, causing a rash, blisters and discolored skin.

Shingles occur on the chest in about 60 percent of patients, the head and face in about 15 percent, the neck and lower back in 10 percent each, and the lowest part of the spine in 5 percent. Over 99 percent of the time the rash is limited to either the left or right side of the body.

Between 10 and 15 percent of people who suffer from shingles will also experience post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). These people’s nerves are probably damaged during the initial outbreak of shingles, which leaves a legacy of pain. Early treatment with anti-viral drugs when symptoms of shingles first appear can reduce the likelihood
and intensity of PHN.

A vaccine is also now available that reduces the risk of getting shinges and PHN, and which is recommended by the CDC for people aged 60 years or older. The greatest value comes if the vaccine is used before the first shingles outbreak, but people who have already had shingles can still use the vaccine to help prevent or reduce future occurrences.

LABELS:
Ganglia
Common rash areas

Text and illustrations by Kevin T. Boyd

Acupressure for shingles sufferers
Here are lists of acupressure points for Immune system, Skin and Rash on PointFinder.org. Also try looking for points for the specific body area affected.
If this is your first time, please read the instructions. Don’t use acupressure to replace standard emergency procedures or licensed medical treatment. If you are seriously injured or have acute symptoms seek urgent medical treatment.