Herpes Zoster Anyone who has had chicken pox can develop herpes zoster. Also known as shingles or zoster, herpes zoster is caused by the same virus as chicken pox. After the chicken pox clear, the virus remains dormant (inactive) within certain nerve cells of the body. When the virus reactivates, zoster, which can be quite painful, develops. CAUSES OF HERPES ZOSTER It is not clear what reactivates or "awakens" the virus. A temporary weakness in immunity (the body's ability to fight infection) may cause the virus to multiply and move along nerve fibers toward the skin. Although children can get zoster, it is more common in people over the age of 50. Illness, trauma, and stress also may trigger zoster. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HERPES ZOSTER Zoster typically causes more pain and less itching than chicken pox. A person may feel burning, itching, tingling, or extreme sensitivity on the skin (usually limited to an area on one side of the body). These symptoms are typically present for one to three days, sometimes more, before a red rash appears in the same area. A zoster rash usually occurs on only one side of the body. A fever or headache also may develop. TREATMENT OF HERPES ZOSTER Zoster usually clears on its own in a few weeks and seldom recurs. While zoster is clearing, pain relievers can help ease the discomfort, and cool compresses may provide soothing relief. When diagnosed early (within 72 hours), oral anti-viral medication can be prescribed. This medication is often prescribed when the zoster is severe or affects an eye. Patients who have decreased immunity also are routinely prescribed an anti-viral medication. In addition to treating the zoster, an anti-viral medication can prevent post-herpetic neuralgia (pain, numbness, itching, and tingling that last long after the rash clears).