Which type of nerves do herpes zoster primarily affect?

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, primarily affects sensory nerves. This viral infection is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. When the virus reactivates, it travels along the sensory nerve fibers to the skin, leading to a painful rash and other symptoms typically confined to a particular dermatomal segment.

The sensory nerves are responsible for processing sensations like pain, temperature, and touch. Following reactivation, individuals often experience significant pain in the affected areas, even before the rash appears. This pain, known as postherpetic neuralgia, can persist long after the initial rash resolves, emphasizing the role of sensory nerves in the condition.

In contrast, motor nerves are responsible for muscle movement, autonomic nerves control involuntary bodily functions, and sympathetic nerves are part of the autonomic nerve system involved in the fight or flight response. While herpes zoster may indirectly influence these systems through pain or stress responses, the primary impact is on sensory nerves, which explains why this option is the most accurate.