Naagin disease is another name for shingles, also known as Akki disease.
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you recover from chickenpox, the virus stays inactive in your body. It can reactivate years later, causing shingles.
Symptoms of Shingles
The symptoms of shingles can vary in intensity but typically include:
- Pain: Often described as burning, tingling, or stabbing pain. This is usually the first symptom and can occur before the rash appears.
- Rash: A painful rash that appears as a stripe or band of blisters on one side of the body. It is usually limited to a small area.
- Itching: The rash can be very itchy.
- Fever and Headache: Some individuals may experience mild fever, headache, and fatigue.
Causes of Shingles
- Reactivation of the Varicella-Zoster Virus: The varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in nerve cells after a chickenpox infection. The virus can reactivate later in life.
- Weakened Immune System: Factors like aging, stress, illness, or certain medications can weaken the immune system, making it easier for the virus to reactivate.
Treatment for Shingles
- Antiviral Medications: Medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir can reduce the severity and duration of the shingles outbreak. They are most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help with pain. In severe cases, stronger prescription pain medication may be needed.
- Topical Treatments: Calamine lotion and colloidal oatmeal baths can relieve itching.
- Vaccination: The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults over the age of 50 and can prevent the re-occurrence of shingles.
Shingles: A Breakdown
Here is a table summarising key points about shingles:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Naagin Disease, Akki Disease |
| Cause | Reactivation of varicella-zoster virus |
| Symptoms | Pain, rash (blisters) on one side of the body, itching, fever, headache |
| Risk Factors | Age over 50, weakened immune system |
| Treatment | Antiviral medications, pain relievers, topical treatments |
| Prevention | Shingles vaccine |
Prevention
The best way to prevent shingles is to get vaccinated. The vaccine is recommended for adults over the age of 50.
