Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It can appear anywhere on the body but typically wraps around either the left or right side of the torso. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After someone has had chickenpox, the virus lies inactive in nerve tissue near the spinal cord and brain, and years later, it can reactivate as shingles. Symptoms include pain, burning, numbness, tingling, sensitivity to touch, a red rash that develops a few days after the pain, and fluid-filled blisters that break open and crust over. Treatment aims to shorten the length of the infection and reduce symptoms, which may include antiviral medication, pain relievers, and sometimes corticosteroids.
Mahalo allows you to consult with healthcare providers about herpes zoster. Through virtual consultations, you can discuss your symptoms, potentially receive a diagnosis, and get prescribed treatment to manage the condition, helping to reduce the severity and duration of the infection, all from the comfort and privacy of your home.
