Varicella zoster virus in those over 50 ACK

  • Context: Medical 
  • Thread starter Thread starter rhody
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Virus
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) and its reactivation in individuals over 50, leading to shingles and potentially severe complications like postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Participants emphasize the importance of early intervention, specifically the use of antiviral medication such as valacyclovir, to mitigate symptoms and prevent the virus from spreading. Symptoms of shingles include burning pain and a characteristic rash, which can be mistaken for other conditions. The conversation highlights the need for awareness of shingles' risks, especially in older adults or those under stress.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) and its effects
  • Knowledge of shingles symptoms and progression
  • Familiarity with antiviral medications, specifically valacyclovir
  • Awareness of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and its implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the latest guidelines on shingles vaccination and prevention strategies
  • Explore the efficacy and side effects of valacyclovir for treating shingles
  • Investigate the relationship between stress and the reactivation of VZV
  • Learn about the long-term effects of postherpetic neuralgia and management options
USEFUL FOR

Individuals over 50, healthcare professionals, caregivers, and anyone seeking to understand shingles and its management, particularly in relation to stress and prior health conditions.

  • #31
daveb said:
I found out recently I had never gotten Chicken Pox as a kid, so got the vaccination last month.
Any reaction, soreness, low grade fever, etc... ? If it spares you from this it is well worth it.

Rhody...
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #32
I just noticed something else, a couple of years ago I cracked a couple of ribs right in the area where the rash now is, and the pain is similar to what I felt back then. Can the virus get into old cracks in bones and aggravate nerves in the area. The pain feels very similar.

Rhody... :redface:
 
  • #33
rhody said:
Any reaction, soreness, low grade fever, etc... ? If it spares you from this it is well worth it.

Rhody...

Nope, no adverse reactions. The CDC flyer I received said these happen about 10% of the time for adults.
 
  • #34
Rhody gingerly pokes his head out of his shell, the nerve pain is getting better every day, have just had a mild case of sinusitus. That is much better than my health woes of late. I hope I don't "Evo Jinx myself" no offense Evo. I need to be outside more and get more fresh air. I hate being sick because I fight hard with exercise, eating and sleeping right, it just doesn't seem fair at times.

Rhody... :rolleyes: :redface:
 

Similar threads

Powassan virus on the rise in the US?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Medical Electrical stimulation of the Vagus nerve may relieve treatment-resistant depression
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
What is the impact of childhood experiences on academic success?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
5K
COVID Covid Long Haulers: Statistics Show Potential for Serious Health Issue
  • · Replies 47 ·
2
Replies
47
Views
10K
Medical Why can't appendicitis be treated with just antibiotics?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Coccidioidomycosis, deadly fungal disease, no effective cure
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
1K
COVID Flurona - COVID-19 and influenza at the same time
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Can You Become Immune to Mosquito Bites?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Understanding SARS-Cov-2, Effects of Covid-19 and the Future
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
COVID Medical Science, Medical Ethics, COVID-19
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K