How is shingles (herpes zoster) skin disease caused?
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a skin condition generally caused by factors such as aging, excessive mental stress, extreme fatigue, trauma, or viral infection, and requires appropriate management depending on the specific circumstances. It is recommended to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid staying up late, which can help enhance immune system function.
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, typically refers to a skin condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus. In general, shingles may be triggered by factors such as aging, excessive mental stress, extreme fatigue, trauma, or viral infections, and management should be tailored according to the specific situation.
1. Aging: With increasing age, the function of the human immune system gradually declines, including reduced T-cell function and weakened immune surveillance and clearance of viruses. This makes the varicella-zoster virus, which lies dormant in the nerve ganglia, more likely to reactivate, leading to the occurrence of shingles. A balanced diet and adequate nutritional intake are recommended to support immune function.
2. Excessive Mental Stress: Prolonged negative emotional factors can affect the neuroendocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances that interfere with normal immune function and lower the body's immunity, increasing the risk of developing shingles. It is recommended to learn stress-reduction techniques, such as engaging in moderate physical activities like walking or yoga, to relieve stress and alleviate anxiety.
3. Extreme Fatigue: Prolonged overexertion may affect the normal functioning of the nervous system, causing imbalances in neural regulation and increasing the likelihood of reactivation of the shingles virus. It is important to adjust lifestyle rhythms, ensure sufficient rest, and avoid continued overwork.
4. Trauma: Localized skin injuries caused by trauma or surgery may affect the function and immune status of local nerves, making it easier for the virus lying dormant in the nerve ganglia to reactivate and cause shingles. The injured area should be kept clean and dry to prevent infection.
5. Viral Infection: The varicella-zoster virus can be transmitted via droplets or direct contact. After initial infection, the virus replicates within the epithelial cells of the respiratory mucosa and then spreads throughout the body. Depending on the severity of the condition, symptomatic treatments such as calamine lotion or acyclovir cream may be used to relieve itching and pain, while maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the skin to prevent secondary infections.
It is recommended to maintain good daily habits, ensure sufficient sleep, and avoid staying up late. At the same time, a balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits can help enhance immune function.
