Does shingles recur?

Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

Updated on April 16, 2025

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Shingles can recur. It is a disease mostly caused by the infection of the skin with the herpes zoster virus, and it is closely related to the body's resistance and immunity. The virus resides within the body, and the disease does not manifest when resistance and immunity are high. However, when the body's resistance and immunity are low, it can cause a recurrence of shingles, leading to corresponding clinical symptoms.

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Written by Yu Gang

Dermatology Department

37sec

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How long does herpes zoster take to heal?

The healing time for shingles varies from person to person; generally, younger people recover faster, while older individuals take longer. Treatment typically includes oral antiviral medications like famciclovir and acyclovir, as well as nutrients for nerve health such as vitamins B1 and B12, along with oral traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture. However, if it progresses to postherpetic neuralgia, the condition tends to heal more slowly. Postherpetic neuralgia can only alleviate pain but is generally difficult to cure completely.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

32sec

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Does shingles itch?

Shingles most often leads to the formation of long blisters or herpes, accompanied by significant pain, which is the experience of most patients. However, a minority of people may not feel significant pain but instead experience itching. This is also a manifestation of the inflammation caused by shingles. Therefore, some patients with shingles feel itchy. Both itching and pain require timely antiviral treatment, along with medication that nourishes the nerves.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

41sec

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How long should shingles be isolated?

The contagious period of shingles is about two weeks, so it is advisable to isolate for two to three weeks. Shingles typically occurs in people with weakened immune systems and is mainly caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The primary symptoms are red blister clusters on the skin that follow nerve pathways, accompanied by significant pain. Treatment primarily focuses on antiviral medication, nourishing the nerves, and relieving pain. Generally, within two to three weeks, the rash can crust over and shed, at which point it is no longer contagious, and isolation is no longer necessary.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

1min 3sec

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Can you have sexual intercourse with herpes zoster?

Firstly, it is advised not to have sexual intercourse during an episode of shingles to avoid cross-infection and aid recovery. Humans are the only hosts for the varicella-zoster virus, which can enter the body through respiratory and oral tracts, genital mucosa, saliva, and skin, and lies dormant in human mucosa, blood, saliva, spinal cord, posterior nerve roots, and sensory ganglia cells. People with acute shingles need to seek prompt medical diagnosis to avoid missing the optimal treatment window and delaying the condition. The treatment principles mainly include antiviral therapy, infection control, pain relief, and aiding scab formation. Typically, proper recovery from shingles is expected within seven to ten days in a standard hospital, and this helps in reducing the occurrence of postherpetic neuralgia.

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Written by Yu Gang

Dermatology Department

55sec

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Is herpes zoster the same as chickenpox?

Herpes zoster is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Typically, this virus causes chickenpox in children, but in adults, it manifests as herpes zoster, which is unrelated to chickenpox. The herpes zoster virus primarily attacks the nerves, causing neuralgia. Therefore, it is generally recommended to rest, consume a light diet, and avoid spicy foods, seafood, and rich foods. Treatment usually involves the use of acyclovir and valacyclovir for topical application. Oral nutritional supplements for the nerves, such as vitamin B1 and B12, and spleen peptides to enhance the body's immunity, are also recommended. It is important to rest and pay attention to these aspects. It is best to visit a local dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.