Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recurrence Risks
Shingles Hello, doctor. Around March 26, I experienced a subtle stabbing pain in my left chest. On March 30, a rash appeared on the lower left chest, and on March 31, blisters formed on the lower left chest and the left side of my back. That day, I visited a dermatologist, took f...
Dr. Li Yufen Reply:
Hello: For a detailed introduction to shingles, you can refer to the article on the Dermatology Expert Health Network at http://www.drskincare.com.tw/Qa/Detail.aspx?ID=30. Generally, shingles does not commonly occur bilaterally, and it is rare for it to recur within a short perio...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recurrence Risks
Shingles Vaccine: Do I Need It After Previous Outbreak?
Shingles vaccine Hello, I had shingles in my lower back about 30 years ago, with only 3 to 4 blisters, and it healed in about 2 to 3 weeks. I heard there is a vaccine available now. Do I need to get vaccinated since I had shingles before? If I don't get vaccinated, will it r...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
The incidence rate of shingles is approximately 20%. Once a person has had it, the chance of getting it again is very low, unless their immune system is significantly compromised. Vaccination should be considered based on individual circumstances.[Read More] Shingles Vaccine: Do I Need It After Previous Outbreak?
Understanding Shingles: Transmission Risks and Precautions
Herpes Zoster Hello, the doctor recently confirmed that I have shingles. I currently live with a roommate who has never had chickenpox but has previously received the chickenpox vaccine. Am I able to transmit the virus to him, and what precautions should I take? Thank you.
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
To check when the vaccination was administered, as its efficacy may gradually decrease. If there are concerns, it is recommended to self-isolate.[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Transmission Risks and Precautions
Managing Shingles on the Forehead and Eye Area: What to Expect and How to Care
Shingles on the right forehead and eye area? My mother, who is 77 years old, recently developed shingles on her right forehead and part of the surrounding eye area. She has already visited the emergency room and consulted with neurology and ophthalmology within 2-3 days, receivin...
Dr. Li Yufen Reply:
Hello: Since the shingles have been present for over a week, the acute phase has passed. If the blisters have ruptured and caused wounds, it is important to monitor for potential secondary infections. Additionally, managing postherpetic neuralgia and checking for any eye involvem...[Read More] Managing Shingles on the Forehead and Eye Area: What to Expect and How to Care
Understanding Shingles Transmission: Prevention and Family Safety Tips
Shingles can be transmitted? I have been diagnosed with shingles (currently under medical care). My family members who have been taking care of me for 3 to 4 days are experiencing a dull, tingling pain in their lower back. Should they take any preventive measures, or could they a...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
If shingles is transmitted to someone without immunity, that person will develop chickenpox, not shingles. Avoid contact and isolate.[Read More] Understanding Shingles Transmission: Prevention and Family Safety Tips
Understanding Shingles and Postherpetic Neuralgia: Key Insights and Recovery Tips
Shingles and postherpetic neuralgia? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you some questions. I developed shingles last December, initially mistaking it for back pain and acne. It wasn't until three weeks later that I realized something was wrong and went to see a dermatologis...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
1. The time interval has no specific correlation. 2. All cases are similar. 3. Generally, recovery occurs within 1-2 weeks, although a minority may develop chronic neuropathic pain, which can persist for several months to years. 4. The itching of the wound typically resolves with...[Read More] Understanding Shingles and Postherpetic Neuralgia: Key Insights and Recovery Tips
Shingles in Adults: Safety Tips for Contact with Young Children
Shingles Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if an adult with shingles (located on the lower back and buttocks) should avoid contact with young children (one year old and six months old). Should the clothing of a shingles patient be washed separately, even from other adults' ...
Dr. Li Yufen Reply:
Hello: Regarding the introduction of shingles, you can refer to the article on the Dermatology Expert Health Network at http://www.drskincare.com.tw/Qa/Detail.aspx?ID=30. Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which can be transmitted to others, lea...[Read More] Shingles in Adults: Safety Tips for Contact with Young Children
Is Shingles a Sign of HIV? Understanding Your Symptoms and Concerns
I have shingles; could it be HIV? A few days ago, I developed an unknown lesion under my armpit. After seeing a dermatologist, I was diagnosed with shingles. Is this a precursor to HIV? I often feel fatigued (I usually stay up late studying, but even during winter break when I ra...
Dr. Li Yufen Reply:
Hello: Regarding the introduction of shingles, you can refer to the article on the Dermatology Expert Health Network at http://www.drskincare.com.tw/Qa/Detail.aspx?ID=30. Shingles is not a precursor to HIV; however, individuals with HIV may experience shingles more frequently due...[Read More] Is Shingles a Sign of HIV? Understanding Your Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Red, Swollen Skin: Causes and Remedies for Painful Lesions
Skin redness and swelling? I woke up in the morning with chest pain. I unconsciously touched it and felt a lot of pain. Then I noticed there was a red, swollen area about the size of two fingernails on my chest, which felt a bit bubbly and was very painful. I don't know what...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
Without actually seeing the lesion, it is difficult to confirm. Caution should be exercised regarding the possibility of shingles. It is recommended to have a dermatologist evaluate it for a proper diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Red, Swollen Skin: Causes and Remedies for Painful Lesions
Understanding Shingles: Transmission, Care, and Precautions
The body has developed shingles? Recently, a family member developed shingles (herpes zoster) on their lower back. They have seen a doctor, but forgot to ask if it's safe to wash clothes together with theirs. Is the transmission route solely through direct contact? Could I g...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
It is safe to bathe together. If a family member has had chickenpox or has recently received the chickenpox vaccine, there is no need for concern. However, pregnant women who have not had chickenpox or newborns who have received the chickenpox vaccine should exercise caution.[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Transmission, Care, and Precautions
Sudden Itchy Pimples on Left Arm: Causes and When to Seek Help
Sudden onset of itchy and painful pimples on the left arm? I suddenly developed itchy and painful bumps on my left arm, and I accidentally scratched a few of them, causing a fluid to ooze out similar to that of popped pimples. I have been staying up late for the past week. Previo...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
Please seek medical attention as soon as possible.[Read More] Sudden Itchy Pimples on Left Arm: Causes and When to Seek Help
Shingles Treatment: Should You Return to Taiwan for Care?
Shingles Hello, Doctor! I am in Australia and I discovered a herpes outbreak on Tuesday night. The next evening, I went to see a doctor. He only prescribed me famciclovir 250mg for a 7-day course. He did not give me any topical ointment or antiviral injections. Today is Saturday,...
Dr. Li Yufen Reply:
Hello: Regarding shingles, you can refer to the article on the Dermatology Expert Health Network at http://www.drskincare.com.tw/Qa/Detail.aspx?ID=30. Famciclovir is an antiviral medication, and specific antiviral injections require hospitalization for intravenous administration....[Read More] Shingles Treatment: Should You Return to Taiwan for Care?
Is It Normal for Shingles to Spread Rapidly in the Genital Area?
Shingles I started noticing lesions on my buttocks and genital area from Monday, and by today, Thursday, they have increased in number. I have seen a doctor and have been applying medication and taking prescribed medication. Is this normal?
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
A literal description indicates that without actually visualizing the lesion, confirmation cannot be made. It may still be in the acute phase and could potentially grow a bit more.[Read More] Is It Normal for Shingles to Spread Rapidly in the Genital Area?
Can Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome Receive Shingles Vaccine?
Can patients with Sjögren's syndrome receive the shingles vaccine? Can patients with Sjögren's syndrome receive the shingles vaccine?
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
Sure.[Read More] Can Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome Receive Shingles Vaccine?
Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Exercise Guidelines
Shingles I developed symptoms on Monday and saw a dermatologist on Thursday, who prescribed me medication for three days. I would like to ask if it's normal for the muscles around the herpes area to twitch around noon today? Also, since the onset of my symptoms, I've be...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
Typically, after a peak period of 3-5 days, symptoms will gradually improve, but a follow-up visit to the doctor is still necessary. Calamine lotion should be applied 1-3 times a day and needs to be washed off. It is recommended to get plenty of rest and to refrain from exercisin...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Exercise Guidelines
Understanding Shingles in Young Children: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Regarding shingles in young children? Hello, doctor. Last Friday, I noticed a rash on my son's (3.5 years old) inner thigh. At first, I didn't think much of it and decided to observe. However, the next day, the rash began to increase slowly, concentrating on the upper l...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
Based on your description, if it is confirmed to be shingles, the physician's management is entirely reasonable. Shingles typically has a peak period around 3 to 5 days after onset, and generally begins to dry and crust over after about 7 days. Antiviral medications are inte...[Read More] Understanding Shingles in Young Children: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time
Shingles Hello, I have shingles, and I started experiencing localized redness and swelling on my abdomen and back around Friday. The next day, small blisters began to appear, and by today, Wednesday, the blisters have become very dense. I saw a doctor on Tuesday, who prescribed m...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
Taking antiviral medication within 3 to 5 days is more effective; taking it too late will render it ineffective. Given your age, recovery typically occurs within about 1 to 2 weeks.[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time
Managing Postherpetic Neuralgia: Pain Relief Options for Seniors
The appearance of the shingles has improved, but the pain persists continuously? My father is 81 years old. He developed shingles last October, and the blisters appeared to have healed by February of this year. However, he has been experiencing persistent pain since then. Current...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
Treatment options for postherpetic neuralgia include topical medications, oral medications, low-level laser therapy, and acupuncture. If these treatments are ineffective, nerve block procedures may be considered. Nerve block procedures specifically target the affected dermatomes ...[Read More] Managing Postherpetic Neuralgia: Pain Relief Options for Seniors
Understanding Chickenpox Immunity and Risks of Shingles After Infection
About Chickenpox (2) Hello Dr. Wu: Thank you for your previous response. Regarding chickenpox, you mentioned that it is a matter of probability; the more exposure and the longer the duration, the greater the risk. However, I would like to ask further, as I inquired with my family...
Dr. Wu Yuxin Reply:
1. Once a person has had chickenpox, they have lifelong immunity. 2. Shingles occurs when an individual's immune system is weakened, leading to the reactivation of the latent virus, and is not related to exposure to the virus.[Read More] Understanding Chickenpox Immunity and Risks of Shingles After Infection
Does L-Arginine Increase Herpes Virus Activity and Trigger Recurrence?
Herpes virus Hello Dr. Lee, I would like to ask if taking L-arginine will increase the activity of the herpes virus? I had shingles a few years ago and I'm wondering if taking L-arginine could cause a recurrence.
Dr. Li Yufen Reply:
Hello: L-arginine is classified as a dietary supplement. The product precautions mention that individuals with glaucoma, herpes, myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease, or those with heart stents should avoid consuming arginine. Thank you![Read More] Does L-Arginine Increase Herpes Virus Activity and Trigger Recurrence?