According to Dr. Doan Van Loi Em - Head of the Examination Department of Ho Chi Minh City Dermatology Hospital, shingles can have many dangerous complications if not treated promptly and properly. These complications have a long-term impact on physical and mental health.
Neuralgia behind shingles
The most common and affected complication is post-herpetic neuralgia. Patients may experience persistent pain in the damaged skin area for many months, even many years after the blisters have healed.
The pain is often burning, acne, pain... reducing the quality of life, causing insomnia and depression. The risk of post-herpetic neuralgia increases in older adults, people with severe shingles or late treatment.
Skin infections
Zones can break down and become more susceptible to bacteria if not properly cared for. Infections can cause pustules, skin ulcers, swelling and inflammation that can cause soft tissue inflammation or even sepsis - a life-threatening condition.
Therefore, keeping the skin clean and avoid scratching and burping of blisters is important during treatment.
Eye complications
When the shingles affects the number V nerve, especially the eye branch, the patient may experience complications of the shingles. This is a serious condition that can cause conjunctivitis, corneal inflammation, cervical lining inflammation, hyperopia and even blindness if not treated early. Warning signs include pain around the eyes, red eyes, reduced vision or blurred vision.
Central Neurological Complications
In rare cases, varicella-zoster virus causes shingles that can spread, causing meningitis, encephalitis or stroke due to cerebral anemia.
Signs include severe headaches, high fever, confusion, weak limbs. These are dangerous complications that require immediate emergency care.
