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About UsProfessor Huang Tianci, a traditional Chinese medicine expert, was born into a family of medicine in Hong Kong. He co-founded Wong To Yick Oil Company and Jianluo Tong Pharmaceutical Company with his father, Mr. Wong Dao. For over fifty years, he has been dedicated to promoting the culture of traditional Chinese medicine in Hong Kong. Professor Huang adheres to his father's principle of "Made in Hong Kong" by scientifically managing the production of traditional external analgesics, medicinal oils, and plasters, establishing the well-known "Wong To Yick" and "Jianluo Tong" brands, which have a long history and are bestsellers in Hong Kong.
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ProductsThe company includes several active oil brands, among which "Yidian Ning Cooling", "Jianluo Tong Active Oil", and the represented "Zanghong Ning" are some of the best-selling brands in Hong Kong.
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ServiceGather a group of idealistic and responsible teams dedicated to human health, and provide a "more proactive, more professional, and simpler medication..." green medical platform for patients who have long suffered from "urban diseases" around the world, practicing the ideal of a "pain-free life" and "Live no pain."
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BlogProfessor Huang Tianci has continued his father's philosophy of traditional Chinese medicine, dedicating himself to promoting the concept of treating diseases before they occur. He has participated in the promotion of "Tian Ci Liang Yan," aiming to introduce more people to the culture of traditional Chinese medicine and the benefits of its treatments, enhancing public awareness and understanding of traditional Chinese medicine, and allowing more people to benefit from its efficacy.
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Detailed explanation of the causes, symptoms, dietary restrictions, and methods to alleviate the symptoms of shingles in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Release time:
2024-10-11
Shingles is a viral skin disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is the result of the reactivation of chickenpox that has been dormant in the body for many years, usually due to a weakened immune system.
What is shingles?
Shingles is a viral skin disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is the result of the reactivation of the chickenpox virus that has been dormant in the body for many years, usually due to a weakened immune system. The main feature of shingles is the appearance of a skin rash in a band-like distribution, accompanied by severe pain, which is often described as a burning or stabbing sensation. In traditional Chinese medicine, shingles is referred to as "snake string sore, waist fire dragon, waist fire dan," and these names are related to the characteristics of the lesions, as the rash often presents in a crawling or ring-like distribution along the nerve pathways of the skin, resembling a snake or dragon.
Causes of shingles
Shingles is a symptom caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The shingles virus is a neurotropic virus that, after infection, can remain dormant in the nerve ganglia of the body. As age increases or the immune system changes, these viruses may reactivate, leading to the occurrence of shingles.
In terms of internal causes, as age increases, the human immune system gradually weakens, leading to a decrease in resistance to the virus, making it easier for the dormant virus to reactivate. Long-term anxiety, depression, or emotional stress can lead to physiological changes in the body, inhibiting the normal functioning of the immune system, significantly increasing the risk of shingles.
In terms of external causes, it can occur due to viral infections. Although shingles is not caused by a new infection, contact with a shingles patient can still trigger chickenpox. After infection, the burden on the immune system increases, and its ability to monitor dormant viruses decreases, thereby increasing the probability of shingles occurrence.
Symptoms of shingles
The initial symptoms of shingles are usually localized tingling and discomfort. As the condition progresses, a rash will appear on the skin, typically distributed in patches or bands. Initially, it presents as red spots, which then develop into small blisters, distributed along the nerve pathways, commonly found on the chest, abdomen, face, or neck. Patients may experience noticeable tingling, itching, or burning sensations, and this discomfort often begins a few days or even weeks before the rash appears. Some patients may also experience systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and headache, but these are not common features for all patients. As for the duration of shingles, the process from the appearance of the rash to the formation of blisters generally lasts about one to two weeks, after which the blisters will crust over and begin to heal. Most patients can fully heal within two to four weeks. However, some patients may still experience nerve pain after healing, known as postherpetic neuralgia, which can last for months or years, severely affecting quality of life.
In terms of external causes, it can occur due to viral infections. Although shingles is not caused by a new infection, contact with a shingles patient can still trigger chickenpox. After infection, the burden on the immune system increases, and its ability to monitor dormant viruses decreases, thereby increasing the probability of shingles occurrence.
Symptoms of shingles
The initial symptoms of shingles are usually localized tingling and discomfort. As the condition progresses, a rash will appear on the skin, typically distributed in patches or bands. Initially, it presents as red spots, which then develop into small blisters, distributed along the nerve pathways, commonly found on the chest, abdomen, face, or neck. Patients may experience noticeable tingling, itching, or burning sensations, and this discomfort often begins a few days or even weeks before the rash appears. Some patients may also experience systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and headache, but these are not common features for all patients. As for the duration of shingles, the process from the appearance of the rash to the formation of blisters generally lasts about one to two weeks, after which the blisters will crust over and begin to heal. Most patients can fully heal within two to four weeks. However, some patients may still experience nerve pain after healing, known as postherpetic neuralgia, which can last for months or years, severely affecting quality of life.
How to reduce the risk of shingles?
Maintaining a healthy immune system is crucial for reducing the risk of shingles. This includes consuming adequate vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc. Additionally, moderate exercise can promote blood circulation and enhance the body's resistance. Psychological stress is an important factor affecting the immune system; long-term stress can lead to the production of large amounts of stress hormones, thereby lowering immunity. Daily practices such as meditation, relaxation exercises, cultivating hobbies, and social interactions can help relieve stress and relax the mind. Furthermore, vaccination against shingles can significantly reduce the risk, especially for adults over 50 years old. These vaccines effectively stimulate the body to produce antibodies against the chickenpox virus, improving preventive capabilities. As for home care recommendations for shingles, the primary focus should be on keeping the affected area clean. You can gently wash the affected area with warm water and non-irritating soap, keeping the skin dry and clean to reduce the risk of infection. At home, wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid tight fabrics coming into direct contact with the skin, reducing irritation and discomfort. Additionally, nutritional supplementation and a healthy, balanced diet, especially foods rich in vitamin B and vitamin C, are beneficial for strengthening the immune system and aiding skin healing.
Shingles itself is not contagious, but the varicella-zoster virus it causes can be transmitted through contact with the active lesions of shingles to individuals who have never been infected with chickenpox. These individuals may then develop chickenpox instead of shingles. Shingles can recur, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. Studies show that about 10-20% of patients may experience one or more recurrences after the initial outbreak, and the risk of recurrence increases with age and is related to stress and fatigue. Therefore, to reduce the risk of shingles recurrence, maintaining a good lifestyle, reducing stress, and getting vaccinated are the most effective methods.
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