Herpes zoster is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is most common in middle-aged and elderly people. The onset of the disease is often preceded by factors that cause a decrease in body resistance, such as chronic wasting diseases, tumors, or long-term use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, or colds and exertion. The typical rash is a cluster of blisters on an erythematous base, with blisters the size of green beans, thick walls, and clear fluid, most of which are often arranged in a band along the nerves, with normal skin between the blister nests. The rash occurs on one side of the body and generally does not exceed the midline. Self-perceived distinct neuralgia may occur before or with the rash, and the older the patient, the more pronounced the pain; some elderly patients may be left with intractable neuralgia after the rash subsides, called postherpetic neuralgia. The purpose of treatment is to shorten the course of the disease, relieve pain and prevent various complications. Anti-viral treatment is the main treatment, and nerve nutrition and analgesic treatment can be given to those with significant pain. In addition, helium-neon laser irradiation and ultraviolet radiation can also play an auxiliary role in treatment. The disease is self-limiting and usually does not recur after healing, but some people may be left with persistent post-neuralgia that can last for six months or even longer.