What Is Shingles?
Shingles is a painful viral infection caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After someone recovers from chickenpox, the virus can remain inactive in the body for many years before becoming active again later in life.
Shingles develops when the chickenpox virus becomes active again. Risk factors include:
- Age over 50
- Weakened immune system
- Certain illnesses or medical treatments
- Physical or emotional stress
Shingles usually causes a blistering rash that appears on one side of the body or face. The condition affects nerves and can lead to ongoing pain even after the rash clears.
Symptoms
Shingles often begins with unusual skin sensations before a rash develops.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning or tingling skin
- Pain or sensitivity in one area
- Itching
- Red rash
- Fluid-filled blisters
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
The rash usually forms in a band-like pattern on one side of the body or face. Blisters often crust over within about a week and gradually heal over several weeks.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers usually diagnose shingles by examining the rash and reviewing symptoms and medical history.
In some cases, a sample from the skin or blister fluid may be tested to confirm the diagnosis, especially if the rash is unusual.
How Is It Treated?
Early treatment can help shorten the illness and lower the risk of complications.
Treatment may include:
- Antiviral medicines
- Pain-relief medicines
- Cool compresses
- Anti-itch creams or lotions
- Medicines for nerve pain if symptoms continue
If the rash becomes infected, antibiotics may also be needed.
Most people recover within a few weeks. Some individuals, especially older adults, may develop ongoing nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia after the rash heals.
Vaccination can help lower the risk of shingles and reduce the severity of symptoms if the infection occurs.
