Did you know that 1 in 3 people in the United States will get shingles in their lifetime according to the CDC? Or how about the fact that only someone who has previously had chickenpox can get shingles. That is why if you have ever had chickenpox, it is important to learn more about shingles and how to lower your risk of getting it.
What is shingles
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. If you have ever had chickenpox, the virus stays in your body. When the virus becomes active again, which can happen years or even decades later, it causes shingles.
Shingles causes a rash which is usually painful, itchy, or tingly. For some people, shingles can also cause health problems that last after the rash is gone.
Risks
Anyone who has had chickenpox can get shingles. But some people have a higher risk for getting it.
- Adults age 50 and older: Your risk goes up as you get older because your immune system changes with age.
- People with weakened immune systems: Certain health problems and treatments, such as cancer treatments, can weaken your immune system and raise your risk of getting shingles.
- People with certain long-term health conditions: Some health conditions, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can also affect your immune system and may raise your risk of shingles.
If you have questions about your risk of getting shingles, schedule an appointment to talk with your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP).
Signs and symptoms
Shingles does not always start with a rash. You may first notice tingling, burning or pain in one area of your skin. That area may also feel numb or very sensitive.
A painful or itchy rash may appear a few days later. It often shows up on one side of the body or face. The rash can then turn into small, fluid-filled blisters.
Other symptoms may include:
- Fever or chills
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Pain or sensitivity near the rash
The shingles rash often appears on the chest, back or side of your body. It can also appear on your face or neck.
Long-term effects
Shingles is more than just a painful rash. For some people, its impact may linger long after the initial outbreak. These can include:
- Postherpetic neuralgia: Persistent burning, stabbing, itching in the affected area that can last for months or years.
- Vision problems: Shingles affecting the eye can cause inflammation, scarring, or vision loss. If you get a rash near your eye, get medical care right away as you need immediate treatment.
- Hearing or balance problems: If shingles affect nerves around the ear, it can cause Ramsy Hunt Syndrome.
- Neurologic complications: Rarely, shingles can cause inflammation of the brain, spinal cord, or blood vessels leading to neurologic problems.
Prevention and treatment
Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to lower your risk of shingles and its complications. Studies show that the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, is 97% effective in preventing shingles in adults 50 to 69 years old with healthy immune systems and 91% effective for adults 70 years and older. The shingles vaccine is given in two doses and is recommended for adults age 50 and older.
If you do experience any symptoms or think you may have shingles, call your primary care doctor or APP as soon as you can. They may prescribe an antiviral medicine which may help ease symptoms and shorten your illness. This treatment works best if started early.
While you can't predict if or when shingles may happen, you can take steps to protect yourself. Start by learning the early signs and understanding your personal risk. If you still have questions, schedule an appointment to talk with your doctor or APP. They can walk you through your risk factors, answer any questions, and help you make the best decision for your health, including whether the shingles vaccine is right for you. Don't wait for shingles to catch you off guard. Take the first step toward protection today.
*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Zeshan Gohar, please contact Village Medical – Tomball, at 281-255-3838 or visit us at 155 School St., Suite 300, Tomball, TX 77375. We look forward to caring for you and supporting your health every step of the way.