Shingles and chicken pox are the Herpes virus. There are different strains of Herpes.
They are now saying chicken pox is linked to shingles which is a herpes virus. I think there is merit to the idea of ic being linked to herpes. I hope we can look outside of the box here. I'm taking Valtrex and there is a distinct change in my symptoms. Maybe those who have ic like pain are mistaken and really have herpes pain? Maybe the virus really begins as chickenpox? I can't know. Drs certainly don't know everything. Lets hope that an answer becomes clear soon.
I just tried Valtrex for long standing IC with amazing results. I will stay on the Valtrex. I have always believed that the IC was caused by herpes virus also. I am really amazed at how quickly this IC flare has subsided. I finally have hope again.
Chicken pox is caused by the Herpes Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV)
Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus
Once you have contracted any strain of this virus, it lies dormant in your cells. When the body's immune system is low, it breaks out again.
With the Varicella Zoster Virus that causes chicken pox, once you have had chicken pox it is very unusual to have chicken pox again. But the person who has had chicken pox the same virus will erupt as shingles which affects the nerves. Someone with shingles cannot pass on shingles, but they can pass on the virus to others who have not had chicken pox. Anyone with the shingles should stay clear of pregnant women as the virus can affect the unborn baby.
Also anyone who has an outbreak of cold sores should not kiss. The virus is spread by contact to others and then will lie dormant until the immune system is compromised.
If you get cold sores or fever blisters, or have had Chicken Pox, you have the herpes virus in your body. And I will say, the only time I have an IC flareup is when I also have a herpetic flare.
Have you had Chicken Pox? If so, you have the herpes virus in your body.