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Shingles is a viral disease caused by the same herpes strain as chickenpox, affecting people over 60 who have had chickenpox. Symptoms include a painful rash, joint pain, and fatigue. Antiviral medication and topical creams can relieve symptoms. Vaccinations are available to prevent shingles in older people.
Shingles is a common viral disease caused by the same strain of herpes that is responsible for chicken pox. It generally affects people over the age of 60 who have had chickenpox in the past. Symptoms include a painful, rapidly developing rash accompanied by chills, joint pain, and fatigue. The condition usually clears up within about two weeks even without treatment, but doctors usually prescribe antiviral medications and topical creams to relieve symptoms faster. Vaccinations are available to help prevent shingles in older people.
After a person recovers from a childhood case of chickenpox, the shingles virus is deactivated in their body. It often lies dormant for life, but occasionally the virus awakens and migrates to the skin. Doctors aren’t sure exactly why or how shingles causes shingles, but evidence suggests that it takes advantage of the weakened immune systems of older adults. Young people who have immunodeficiency disorders and those taking medications that suppress the functioning of the immune system are also at risk of developing shingles.
The rashes can emerge anywhere on the body, but are most commonly seen along the spine and on the front of the torso. Within hours or days, a red, itchy, and painful patch of skin grows and spreads. Pus-filled blisters form, erupt, and crust over in the first two weeks of infection. Most people also experience flu-like symptoms of body aches, fever, joint pain, and night sweats. Also, changes in vision, hearing and taste are common. Rarely, an untreated case of shingles can cause paralysis of some muscles in the face.
A person who notices signs of shingles should make an appointment with their doctor. A doctor can usually diagnose the condition simply by looking at the rash, asking about symptoms, and reviewing the patient’s medical history. Once other causes of the rash have been ruled out, your doctor can explain your treatment options.
Most doctors prescribe oral antivirals such as acyclovir and famciclovir to shorten the course of this disease. Additionally, a patient may be given oral or topical anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and redness. At home, a person can use cold compresses and calamine lotion to relieve itchy skin.
Shingles is largely preventable thanks to modern vaccinations. The shingles vaccine is available in most developed countries and is recommended as part of a standard course of health care for adults over the age of 60. An individual interested in getting the vaccine can speak to their primary care physician.
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