Understanding Shingles

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a condition characterised by a painful rash and is caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Shingles occur when the chickenpox virus, which remains dormant in the body after an initial infection, reactivates.

After someone has had chickenpox, the virus stays within their system and may reactivate later, leading to shingles. Approximately one in three adults who have had chickenpox will experience shingles in their lifetime.

Shingles is primarily transmitted through direct contact with fluid from the blisters associated with its rash. Individuals who have never had chickenpox or who are unvaccinated can contract the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) if they come into contact with these fluids.

Although less common, transmission can also occur through inhaling airborne virus particles from the rash blisters.

Risk factors of developing shingles

Ageing, a weakened immune system due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS or cancer treatments, and long-term corticosteroids usage are among the risk factors that increase the risk of developing shingles.

Signs and symptoms of shingles

It is normal for different people to go through different symptoms. Before the rash appears, there may be skin sensitivity, tingling, itching, and/or pain in the skin area. A rash, which typically appears after a few days starts as small red spots that develop into blisters. These blisters usually scab over within 7 to 10 days and heal up within 2 to 4 weeks.

Other symptoms of shingles may include an upset stomach, nausea and/or vomiting, fever and/or chills, and headache.

Shingles symptoms may resemble other medical conditions or issues that are similar. It is always best to consult your doctor for a correct diagnosis.

Diagnosing shingles

Shingles are usually diagnosed based on the signs and symptoms shown by the individual. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and review your medical history, particularly regarding whether you have experienced chickenpox before. Your doctor may also test your skin scrapings after taking them.

Treating shingles 

The purpose of treating shingles is to provide relief to its symptoms, shorten the outbreak duration, and avoid complications. If you have a mild rash, you may not need any treatment.

Medicine (antiviral tablets) may be prescribed to help your shingles recovery if your immune system is weakened, the rash or pain is moderate to severe and impacts other body parts apart from your chest, tummy, and back.

You are usually required to start taking the medicine within three days of your rash showing up.

Shingles treatment can also include medicines to aid in soothing the pain, like painkillers, steroid tablets, or medicines that ease nerve pain.

Preventing shingles

Shingles and related complications can be prevented through a recommended vaccine. Consult your doctor about the recombinant zoster vaccine. 

Some people who have taken the chickenpox vaccine can still develop shingles years later. However, this is considerably less common than in individuals who have had chickenpox.

Book an appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

Consult a doctor if you notice your shingles has worsened or new symptoms are appearing. The team of expert dermatologists at Gleneagles Hospitals is available for consultation, ensuring the best care and support for patients.