Every male who has been through a high school health class is aware of the symptoms of HSV. Signs of blisters filled with fluid, itching and soreness are common indicators of this communicable virus. However, HSV is not an inevitable diagnosis when these symptoms appear.

Shingles, known medically as varicella zoster, is a virus which is also characterized by blisters and itching; however, it is not considered as partner-transmitted condition. Understanding the symptoms can help men to make informed decisions about their treatment. Suggestions on caring for the male organ and maintaining reproductive health are also provided here.

What is shingles, exactly?

Shingles is an inflammatory condition of the nerves and surrounding skin. It is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox – the varicella-zoster virus (or simply zoster virus). Anyone who has had the chickenpox can develop shingles, usually later in life – generally after the age of 50. The varicella-zoster virus lies dormant in the body once an individual has recovered from chicken pox, but it can be reactivated much later, resulting in the symptoms of shingles.

What are the symptoms?

Most patients describe the initial symptoms as tingling or pain and tenderness of the skin. In 2-3 days after the appearance of these symptoms, a clustered red rash may appear. The rash may resolve into blisters that appear to be filled with water. The rash generally clears up on its own after 2-3 weeks; however, intense itching and pain – a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia – may continue for months, or even years, after the initial symptoms have disappeared.

Blisters on the male organ: The blisters most often appear on the torso and buttocks, but they can also affect the privates, including the head and shaft of the male organ. Severe male organ itching may accompany the blisters. The male organ symptoms of shingles closely resemble those of HSV, an incurable partner-transmitted condition that is highly contagious. Any sign of a blistering rash on the male organ should be evaluated by a doctor.

Other flu-like symptoms may accompany the disease, including fever, headache, upset stomach or abdominal pain, fatigue, confusion and memory loss.

Is varicella zoster contagious?

Shingles are only contagious if the blisters are broken, and will only affect individuals who have not had chicken pox. However, they will develop chicken pox, not shingles.

Risk factors

Anyone who has had chicken pox can develop shingles; however, it is more common in individuals with a suppressed immune system, such as people with HIV/AIDS or those who are receiving radiation or chemotherapy. Certain bone and lymphatic cancers also increase the risk of developing shingles.

Treatment

While shingles will resolve on its own, more severe cases may be treated with an antiviral medication – particularly when it affects the eyes or causes male organ blisters. As with chickenpox, using pain relievers, cool compresses and anti-itch formulas such as calamine lotion may help to ease the itching, burning sensation.

Daily care for the male organ skin

While caring for the male organ does not mean that problems such as shingles won’t occur, taking good care of the equipment can help to keep it in top condition and help boost the body’s resistance to disease. Cleaning the male organ every day can prevent a buildup of bacteria that increases the risk for infection – not to mention unpleasant odors. Adding a male organ nutrient cream  (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) to the personal care routine can help to ensure that the male organ is well-nourished and resistant to minor skin damage and that the skin retains its natural moisture balance – all important factors in maintaining overall manhood health.

For additional information on most common male organ health issues, tips on improving male organ sensitivity, and what to do to maintain a healthy male organ, visit: http://www.man1health.com. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.