Herpes Zosters

Herpes is a virus causing a group of spots on an area of inflamed skin. The spots which are also known as vesicles have white heads containing fluids. Herpes Zoster is a virus infection which is the same as in chicken pox.

Small patches of skin are inflamed, on each are small spots with white tops on a strip of skin supplied by one nerve. In the trunk they follow a circle from back to front. It usually lasts a few weeks and then subsides. The patient is best in bed during the acute stage and the spots must be kept dry. Generally, there is complete recovery within three weeks, but sometimes, particularly in elderly patients, there is some persistent pain after the eruption has gone. Soothing agents like Calamine lotion are known to be helpful and may be regularly applied. Anti-virus agents may reduce the severity of the pain and inflammation, but these must be taken only on prescription by a doctor. Supplementary tablets of Cyanocobalimine which is also known as Vitamin B12 have also given good results and enhance the recovery process.

This condition is highly contagious and can spread very easily through contact. Susceptible people can catch chickenpox from people with shingles and can also catch shingles from those with chicken pox. It is therefore reiterated that the patient should observe complete bed rest. Moreover, he should also avoid interaction with others. All of the family members will need to take precaution and rinsing of clothes and bed linen of all members of the household, in hot water is advised. Neem is known to be an excellent remedy for Herpes Zoster. A paste made of neem leaves can be applied regularly on the affected areas. Also, neem leaves can be placed below the patient's pillow and on the patient's bed. The anti-viral properties of the neem are said to destroy the virus and contain its spread. Personal Hygiene of the patient must be strictly adhered to at all costs and the affected portion should be washed with warm water and gently dried by a towel, twice daily. The Herpes Zoster patient should refrain from eating non-vegetarian food and also avoid oil, coconut, chilies and tamarind during treatment as these food-stuffs are known to aggravate the condition. Also, honey may be applied on the affected portions and then washed off after a couple of hours. At any point of time, if the condition is exacerbated, one must show the doctor without delay.

I never thought it was that serious. I merely passed it off as 'rashes' or part of my eczema. Alhamdulillah, I noticed that there was something peculiar about this rashes and went to see a doctor soon enough and was diagnosed. Treatment was started immediately, an expensive one also.

I wouldn't take any chances and even tried the traditional methods prescribed by some elders. I'd do anything to expedite the recovery. It had been a terrible 3-days stay at home (may also be extended further). The itch and pain, all at the same time, was terrible and definitely unbearable. I have to stay away from my dear loved ones to prevent any infections within my home.

I feel terrible, having to stay home, unable to report to work and leaves all the important tasks which are due this week to my fellow colleagues in the office. But, believe me, this happened, not within my own will. I owe them a lot upon my recovery.

Ya Allah, please allow me a speedy recovery.... Amin.