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Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by reactivation of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Those who have had chickenpox before are at risk of getting shingles because the virus remains in the body. When reactivated, it produces a painful rash and blisters, usually appearing on one side of the body.
This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, and risks of shingles in detail. In addition, it will also explain effective prevention and treatment measures. If you experience symptoms or are exposed to shingles, seek immediate treatment at Gleneagles Hospital to prevent complications and speed recovery.
Shingles Risk Factors
1. Weakened Immune System
Individuals who have low immunity, such as those with chronic diseases including cancer or HIV, are more at risk of getting shingles.
2. Age
Individuals over 50 are at a higher risk, as immune function generally declines with age. The risk and severity of shingles increase as people age, particularly for those over 60.
Symptoms of Shingles to Watch Out for
1. Burning or Shooting Pain, Tingling, or Itching
Early signs of shingles often involve unusual sensations in the skin where the rash will later develop. This includes burning pain, sharp shooting pain, or a tingling sensation. These symptoms may feel like a constant itch or irritation, which can make the affected area sensitive to touch. In some cases, people describe the pain as severe, resembling nerve damage or a deep internal ache.
2. Pain on One Side of the Body or Face
Shingles typically affect only one side of the body because the virus reactivates in a specific nerve pathway. This is why the pain and subsequent rash do not cross the midline of the body. The one-sided pain is a key characteristic, helping distinguish shingles from other skin conditions.
3. Rash and Blisters
Several days after the initial pain and tingling, a rash develops. It starts as red patches that eventually form clusters of fluid-filled blisters. These blisters are similar in appearance to chickenpox but are confined to one nerve area, often forming a stripe-like pattern around one side of the torso or face. Over time, the blisters burst and crust over, typically healing within 7 to 10 days.
4. Localised Rash on the Body or Face
The rash commonly appears on the trunk, wrapping around one side of the body in a band-like pattern. On the face, the rash can affect areas near the eyes, ears, or mouth. Facial shingles may lead to more complications, such as vision or hearing issues if untreated.
5. Widespread Rash (Rare Cases)
In individuals with weakened immune systems, the rash can spread across larger areas of the body, resembling a severe case of chickenpox. This is rare and indicates a need for immediate medical intervention due to the risk of complications.
6. Fever, Chills, Headache
A mild to moderate fever often accompanies shingles, indicating the body’s immune response to the reactivated virus. This symptom is typically more noticeable in the early stages, before the rash appears. Some individuals may also experience chills as their body temperature fluctuates in reaction to the viral activity, often accompanied by a general feeling of malaise. Headaches, ranging from mild tension headaches to more severe, migraine-like symptoms, can also occur as part of the systemic response to the virus.
Each person’s experience with shingles can vary, and some may have additional symptoms or more severe manifestations of the condition. Prompt treatment can help alleviate these symptoms and prevent complications.
Is Shingles Contagious
Shingles is not contagious because it is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) already present in the body, rather than being acquired from another person. After someone recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in their nerve tissue and can reactivate later in life as shingles, often triggered by factors like ageing, stress, or a weakened immune system.
Unlike illnesses caused by newly introduced pathogens, shingles does not spread between people. However, the fluid from the blisters of a shingles rash can be transmitted to someone who has never had chickenpox or been vaccinated against it, causing them to develop chickenpox—not shingles. Since the virus is contained within the blisters, the risk of transmission is minimal if the rash is covered, and direct contact is avoided.
Shingles Prevention and Treatment Measures
Preventing and treating shingles quickly can reduce the risk of complications. Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing shingles. The vaccine, in particular, is recommended for those over the age of 50 and has been shown to reduce the risk of shingles and post-shingles neuralgia by 90%.
There is no cure for shingles. Antiviral medications can be used to help reduce the severity, duration, and spread of the rash if taken within 72 hours of symptom onset. Pain relief medications can help relieve pain and discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do shingles cause serious complications?
Yes, some individuals may experience post-herpetic neuralgia, a condition in which chronic pain occurs after the rash clears. Other complications include vision problems if the rash occurs near the eyes.
2. Do shingles leave scars?
A shingles rash can leave scars, especially if scratched or infected. It is important to keep the affected area clean and not to scratch.
3. What are the best steps to avoid infection?
Vaccinations and good hygiene measures are the best way to reduce the risk of infection.
Book an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
If you have any questions about shingles, contact us to make an appointment at the nearest Gleneagles Hospitals. For health checkups and screenings, please contact the nearest health screening centre to start your health journey with the right steps.
