Herpes and Shingles

Herpes infections are common viral infections that can appear on different areas of the body. A herpes infection on the skin is often known as shingles, caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Other common forms of herpes include cold sores and genital herpes. A herpes infection in the eye always requires medical attention.

Contents:

• Symptoms of Herpes
• Causes of Herpes
• Treatment
• Self-Care Instructions
• When to seek medical care?
• How Can Dokport Help?

Symptoms of Herpes

A herpes infection causes itchy, burning blisters on the skin, which burst and heal within a few days. Shingles is a more extensive form of herpes infection, presenting as painful, band-like blisters typically appearing on either the right or left side of the body. The infection often begins with localized pain and skin sensitivity, followed by the appearance of blisters.

Common Symptoms of Herpes:

• Painful, blistered rashes
• Burning and itching of the skin
• Localized pain and soreness associated with shingles

Causes of Herpes

Shingles develops when the chickenpox virus reactivates in individuals who have previously had chickenpox. This usually occurs later in adulthood. Cold sores and genital herpes are spread through direct contact. Herpes viruses remain inactive in the body and can reactivate due to different triggers, such as stress, fatigue, or infections.

Treatment

Mild infections often resolve on their own. Antiviral medications can help relieve symptoms and speed up healing. Pain associated with shingles may be managed with pain killer medication, and severe cases may require the prescription of antiviral medication. If the herpes infection includes general symptoms like fever, or if it occurs in the eye, it is essential to seek in-person medical evaluation.

Self-Care Instructions

• Keep the affected skin clean and dry to avoid irritation of the blisters.
• Avoid touching or scratching the blisters to prevent spreading.
• Ensure sufficient rest and try to reduce stress, as it may trigger infections.
• For pain caused by shingles, pain killer medication may be helpful.

When to seek medical care?

Contact a doctor if:

• Herpes symptoms are severe or unmanageable at home.
• Shingles symptoms persist for more than two weeks.
• Herpes appears near the eye.
• Blisters release fluid or show signs of infection.

How Can Dokport Help?

Dokport’s online medical service offers quick assistance with treating herpes and shingles. Our doctors can assess your symptoms through chat and images, provide self-care advice, and prescribe medications if necessary. If the situation requires, we may recommend an in-person visit with a doctor or nurse.

Expert: Dr. Anna Sipilä, MD, Associate Professor of Experimental Internal Medicine