Herpes zoster - causes, symptoms & natural treatment with lactoferrin

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is an infection caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). Lactoferrin can inhibit the binding and uptake of viruses into the host cells.

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Wissenswertes über "Herpes zoster"

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is an infection caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV).

The varicella zoster virus (VZV) is the same pathogen that causes chickenpox. After a chickenpox infection, the virus remains inactive in the nerve cells and can be reactivated if the immune system is weakened, leading to herpes zoster. Older and immunocompromised people are particularly affected.

Herpes zoster usually manifests itself as a painful, vesicular rash, which often occurs on one side and in a specific area of the skin. The rash may also be preceded by a tingling or burning sensation in the affected area. General malaise, fever and headaches may accompany the rash. In most people, the symptoms subside after around two to four weeks. In some cases, however, post-zoster neuralgia (PZN) can occur, which is characterised by long-lasting nerve pain and a disturbed sensation of pain in the affected areas of the body and severely impairs quality of life.

A weakened immune system, stress, illnesses such as diabetes or immunosuppressive therapies can increase the risk of a new outbreak. To strengthen the immune system, the use of natural substances such as lactoferrin is increasingly coming to the fore. Lactoferrin, a protein found in breast milk and other body fluids, plays an important role in immune defence. It has antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties that could be helpful in the treatment and prevention of herpes zoster. The protein can inhibit the binding and uptake of viruses into host cells by binding to the receptors of the virus that it needs to dock onto human cells. In addition, lactoferrin strengthens the body's own defences and the activity of immune cells that play a role in fighting viruses.