Understanding Chickenpox and Shingles: Your Questions Answered
Questions about chickenpox and shingles? Hello, Dr. Zhang. I have never had chickenpox, but my wife had it when she was young. Over the past few years, my wife has experienced shingles, although it was only a small patch and it has improved over time. During that period, my wife ...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello, Xiao Bai: Indeed, the initial infection with the varicella-zoster virus can cause symptoms of chickenpox in the infected individual, especially if they have close contact with someone who has vesicular lesions. However, your wife's symptoms of "shingles, although...[Read More] Understanding Chickenpox and Shingles: Your Questions Answered
Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
About shingles? Hello, doctor! I have developed blisters on my foot (and there are some signs on my buttocks; the top of my foot and toes are painful). One doctor diagnosed it as an allergic reaction and prescribed me a topical steroid, but after using it for 5 days, there was no...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello: "Finding a trusted dermatologist for consultation" is the best advice for you. If your condition is shingles, from a physician's standpoint, it is "not recommended" for a two-month-old baby to sleep with you. I apologize, but based on your written ...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Can Previous Cold Sore History Trigger Outbreaks from Other Herpes Infections?
If there is a history of herpes labialis, can exposure to other herpes patients trigger an outbreak? Hello Doctor: I have a history of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. Recently, due to work, I came into contact with a patient who had chickenpox. One day later, I noticed red...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: The appearance of "herpes" at the corner of the mouth is likely "herpes simplex," not chickenpox or "shingles," which can recur. Poor physical condition, fatigue, and lack of sleep can easily trigger outbreaks. Sincerely, Dr. Jiang Yu-Jiao, De...[Read More] Can Previous Cold Sore History Trigger Outbreaks from Other Herpes Infections?
Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care Tips
Questions about having had chickenpox? A few days ago, I noticed unusual pain in my right armpit. Today, while having lunch, I discovered that I had developed many blisters on my back and underarm area. They are very painful but not itchy. After seeing a doctor, I was informed th...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello Pepe: Based on your description, it could be a condition such as herpes. If you have any questions about the disease, you can consult your treating physician in person, which can help resolve your concerns immediately. Whether or not there will be scarring depends on the de...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care Tips
Can Artificial Skin Help Prevent Chickenpox Scars on My Face?
Chickenpox scars I am currently 33 years old. About 7-8 days ago, I contracted chickenpox from my child. I have experienced fever, the appearance of lesions, and now the lesions are slowly drying and forming scabs. My face is now covered with spots. Can I use artificial skin graf...
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Hello: Artificial skin can be used to aid in recovery, and minimizing infection can help reduce scarring. The impact of chickenpox located on the inner eyelid on the eyes depends on the extent of the damage, and it is advisable to have an evaluation by an ophthalmologist. Sincere...[Read More] Can Artificial Skin Help Prevent Chickenpox Scars on My Face?
Understanding Pink Bumps with Pain: Possible Skin Conditions Explained
Pink lesions with neuralgia/burning sensation? About a week ago, I noticed a pink bump on my back that looked like a mosquito bite (approximately 1.5 cm in diameter), but I didn't pay much attention to it. However, 3 or 4 days ago, I developed 2 or 3 smaller pink bumps, and ...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
You may have herpes zoster, which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The duration of the illness is approximately 2-3 weeks and is often accompanied by neuropathic pain, as it follows the path of the nerves. It typically affects only one side of the body. If you start antiv...[Read More] Understanding Pink Bumps with Pain: Possible Skin Conditions Explained
Do I Need Blood Tests for Chickenpox and Measles Vaccination?
What about the varicella vaccine? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask, I have never had chickenpox or rubella, but I forgot whether I have been vaccinated before. Do I need to have a blood test to find out? Additionally, if I need to get vaccinated again, can both vaccines be admin...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Blood tests are required to know. They can be administered simultaneously, but these two vaccines should not be mixed; they must be given as two separate injections at different sites. Pregnancy is not advised within six months after vaccination. For further information, please v...[Read More] Do I Need Blood Tests for Chickenpox and Measles Vaccination?
Understanding Blisters: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Blisters on the skin? Hello doctor, on Wednesday the 14th, I went swimming at the pool. While swimming, I felt a bit unwell, but I didn't think much of it. That day, I noticed a few small blisters on my left hand, which had a layer of skin on the surface and were filled with...
Dr. Chen Yiying Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. Your condition is indeed quite unusual. Do you have any fever or cold symptoms? If you have never had chickenpox before, it may be worth considering whether you are developing chickenpox. I recommend that you see a physician for examination an...[Read More] Understanding Blisters: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Effective Treatments for Chickenpox Scars: Creams and Laser Options
Chickenpox scars Doctor: Is there any medication to apply for removing the "brown scars" left by chickenpox? If laser treatment is needed, how much does it typically cost?
Dr. Chen Yiying Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, I would like to know when you had chickenpox and how long it has been since the wounds healed. If the discoloration is due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, simply avoiding sun exposure will allow the color to gradually return to your sk...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Chickenpox Scars: Creams and Laser Options
Understanding Sheng She: What You Need to Know About Shingles
Shingles Hello, doctor: May I ask what the disease referred to as "生蛇" in Taiwanese is, as I am not familiar with the correct terminology? What are the potential effects? If there is severe itching in the lower back, does that relate to a type of herpes?
Dr. Zhong Yitun Reply:
The common saying "to have a snake" refers to what is medically known as shingles, or herpes zoster. Its pathogen is the same as that of chickenpox. The cause is that after having chickenpox in childhood, some of the virus remains dormant in the nerve roots near the spi...[Read More] Understanding Sheng She: What You Need to Know About Shingles
Can Shingles Be Contagious? Risks for Infants Explained
Is shingles contagious? Dr. Chen, can shingles be contagious? My mother recently developed shingles, is there a possibility that she could transmit it to my baby (who is just two months old), causing the baby to develop chickenpox? If it is contagious, what is the potential perio...
Dr. Chen Yiying Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the virus in the shingles blisters can potentially be transmitted to a baby who has never had chickenpox, causing the baby to develop chickenpox. However, since your baby is only two months old, if you have had chickenpox, the baby will have p...[Read More] Can Shingles Be Contagious? Risks for Infants Explained
Understanding Chickenpox Contagion: Key Periods and Vaccination Insights
The contagiousness of chickenpox? The period of highest contagiousness for chickenpox occurs from about 1 to 2 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over, which typically takes about 5 to 7 days after the rash onset. The incubation period for chickenpox...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
The incubation period for chickenpox is approximately 2 to 3 weeks, so it becomes contagious a few days after infection and remains contagious until the rash has crusted over. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets, so wearing a mask can help prevent most infections. Inde...[Read More] Understanding Chickenpox Contagion: Key Periods and Vaccination Insights
Effective Treatments for Chickenpox Scars: Options and Costs Explained
How to remove chickenpox scars? Hello Doctor: When I was young, I had chickenpox, and I have left scars on my face. I would like to ask how I can eliminate those scars. Is dermabrasion an option? I previously consulted a plastic surgeon at Heping Hospital, and the doctor mentione...
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
The cost for Erbium YAG laser resurfacing is approximately NT$2000 per square centimeter; the cost for bilateral axillary sweat gland removal is NT$20,000, with a recovery period of about 1 to 2 weeks.[Read More] Effective Treatments for Chickenpox Scars: Options and Costs Explained
Understanding Shingles: Why Chickenpox Can Recur in Adults
Recurrent chickenpox I am 35 years old and currently have around 500 red spots with blisters on my skin, which have spread from my body to my neck and throughout my entire body. After examination by a physician, it was confirmed to be chickenpox. Interestingly, I had chickenpox a...
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Chickenpox "usually" occurs only once; however, even with vaccination, there is still a 2-3% chance of recurrence. Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and can be transmitted through direct contact or airborne transmission. After infection, it is important...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Why Chickenpox Can Recur in Adults
Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Healing Time, and Scar Prevention
Shingles One day, I suddenly noticed small, blister-like bumps on the back right side of my neck. They are painful and increasing in number. Doctor, how long will it take for this condition to heal? I’ve heard that it can leave unsightly scars. How can I minimize scarring, and wh...
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Based on your description, your issue may be shingles. Shingles, commonly known as herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. The first infection with this virus results in chickenpox, after which the virus remains dormant in th...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Healing Time, and Scar Prevention
Understanding Shingles: Dietary and Lifestyle Tips for Recovery
Shingles After being diagnosed with shingles in my lower back, I would like to understand what dietary and lifestyle considerations I should keep in mind. What is shingles? What causes it? Will it recur after healing? Thank you!
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Shingles, commonly known as herpes zoster or chickenpox, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The initial infection with this virus results in chickenpox, after which the virus remains dormant in the spinal nerve roots for life. When stimulated, the latent virus reactivates a...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Dietary and Lifestyle Tips for Recovery