Shingles is a painful and sometimes debilitating condition that affects many people, especially as they age. At Nillumbik Medical Centre, we’ll provide you with accurate information about shingles and managing shingles effectively.

Read on to explore what shingles are, their causes, risk factors, and available treatments, including the shingles vaccine.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

What is Shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in sufferers’ nerve tissues and can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles.

Signs and Symptoms

The primary shingles symptoms include:

  • Pain or tingling in a specific area of the skin
  • Red rash that typically develops into fluid-filled blisters
  • Itching or a burning sensation
  • Fever and headache in some cases

The rash usually appears on one side of the body, often in a band-like pattern. The pain can be severe and persist even after the rash has healed; a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia.

What Causes Shingles?

Shingles occur due to a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. After a person has chickenpox, the virus doesn’t completely leave the body but becomes inactive in their nerve cells. Years later, the virus can reactivate due to various factors, including:

  • Weakened immune system
  • Stress or trauma
  • Certain medications or diseases that compromise immunity

Serious Shingles and Who’s at Risk

Managing shingles can become more complex when the condition is severe. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing complications from shingles, including:

  • Older adults, especially those over sixty
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or living with HIV/AIDS
  • People under significant stress

For these individuals, shingles can lead to more severe symptoms and complications, including long-term pain and skin infections.

Shingles and Elderly People

The connection between shingles and elderly people is significant because the risk of developing shingles increases with age. Older adults are more likely to experience severe pain and complications. The shingles vaccine is highly recommended for those over sixty to help prevent the onset of shingles and its associated complications.

The Shingles Vaccine

The shingles vaccine is a crucial preventive measure. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from serious diseases associated with shingles.

Treatment for Shingles

Early action is essential for shingles treatment. Options include:

  • Antiviral medications: These can help reduce the severity and duration of the outbreak if started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.
  • Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may be needed to manage discomfort.
  • Topical treatments: Calamine lotion or other soothing creams can alleviate itching and discomfort.

Shingles FAQs

Can shingles be contagious?

Shingles are not contagious, but the varicella-zoster virus can spread from someone with shingles to someone who has never had chickenpox, causing chickenpox.

How long do shingles last?

Typically, shingles lasts about 2-4 weeks, but the pain may continue for some time after the rash has healed.

Is there a way to prevent shingles?

Yes, receiving the shingles vaccine is the most effective way to prevent them and reduce the severity if you get it. The Shingles vaccine is funded by The National Immunisation Program for most people over 65 years. Please speak to your GP to discuss eligibility.

Can shingles recur?

Yes, it is possible to have shingles more than once, though it’s relatively rare.

For more information on managing shingles and to discuss whether the shingles vaccine is right for you, contact a GP at Nillumbik Medical Centre today.

Learn more about shingles from Better Health Channel.

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