What is herpes zoster and how does it differ from the childhood disease, chickenpox

by brownpau

What is herpes zoster and how does it differ from the childhood disease, chickenpox

Check it out:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herpes_zosterHello. Love Spongebob.

Herpes zoster is what is commonly called "Shingles." It is a very painful inflammation of the nerves that results in chickenpox-like bumps. It affects adults and it extremely painful and dangerous to older people.

And yes, if you are of age, you should get the vaccine.I've had it, and trust me, it sucks!

'Shingles'--as it is usually called, consists of sores and a rash that trail along a single nerve. In my case, they went along the middle of my back edging towards the side. That's definitely the major difference between chicken pox and herpes zoster...it's only in one place vs. all over.

The way the doctor explained it to me was this: After you get chickenpox, the virus--instead of just disappearing from your system-- stays dormant. This virus can be triggered by anything that weakens your immune system, like illness, (or in my case, stress) and well, before you know it...Shingles.

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