What is gurtelrose?

Gurtelrose, also known as herpes zoster or shingles, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. This condition is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the nerves and later reactivate, causing a rash that is usually limited to one side of the body. Gurtelrose typically presents as small, fluid-filled blisters that eventually crust over, causing itching, burning, and pain. It can also cause fever, headache, and sensitivity to light. The condition can be treated with antiviral medications and pain-relieving drugs, but early treatment is important to minimize complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, a type of chronic pain that can last even after the rash has healed. Vaccination is also available to prevent gurtelrose in individuals aged 50 and older.