What is Shingles?

What are the Symptoms of Shingles?

Shingles usually begins with a warning sign of itching, burning or pain in one area on one side of the body or face. During the following days, that area will develop redness and painful blisters. Some patients will develop worsening pain or flu-like symptoms following the development of the rash. Early diagnosis and initiation of antiviral treatment can decrease the duration of the rash and the pain. Unfortunately, some patients develop persistent pain in the area of the rash after the rash has resolved, a condition known as post-herpetic neuralgia.

Who Is At Risk for Shingles?

Shingles most commonly occurs in patients over 50 years of age. Recently, there has been an increased rate of infection in younger adults. Reactivation of the virus is commonly associated with temporary weaknesses in the immune system which can occur as a result of illness, stress or immunosuppression. Patients with chronically compromised immune systems, such as cancer patients, organ transplant patients or patients with HIV/AIDs are also at increased risk.

What Should I Do If I have Shingles?

It is important to note that shingles is contagious. If a person who has shingles comes into contact with an individual who has never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, that person can develop chickenpox. It is important to protect newborns from any individual with shingles as they have not yet been vaccinated against chickenpox and have a weaker immune system at baseline.

If you suspect you have shingles, you should make an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible for evaluation and early initiation of antiviral medication. Your dermatologist may also offer topical medications to help relieve the pain associated with shingles.

What Can I Do To Prevent Shingles?

Fortunately, a vaccine has been developed for the prevention of shingles. The shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for adults over the age of 50 to reduce the risk of developing shingles and related complications.

At Evolve Dermatology, our experienced dermatologists are dedicated to providing the best care for managing and treating shingles. If you suspect you have shingles or are experiencing symptoms, contact us immediately to schedule an appointment and to receive prompt, effective treatment.