Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by varicella-zoster virus. Although it is most common in people over the age of 50, it can also affect younger individuals. It is estimated that 1 million people in the United States are affected by shingles every year.
Causes of Shingles
There are a number of possible causes of shingles, including:
1. Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those who have HIV or AIDS, are particularly vulnerable to shingles. A weakened immune system may be due to a variety of factors, such as chemotherapy, chronic illness, or stress.
2. Age: As we age, our risk of developing shingles increases. People who are over 50 have a higher risk of developing shingles than those who are younger.
3. Recent illness: Illness can also weaken the immune system, making a person more prone to shingles. People who have recently been ill or have had a physical trauma, such as a surgery, may be at a higher risk of developing shingles.
4. Stress: Stress can also weaken the immune system and make a person more susceptible to shingles.
5. Family history: People who have family members who have had shingles may be at a higher risk of developing the condition.
6. Being a woman: Women are at a higher risk of developing shingles than men.
7. Certain medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, certain blood pressure medications, and certain chemotherapy drugs, can increase the risk of developing shingles.
It is important to note that shingles is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. However, people with shingles can spread the virus to someone who has not had chickenpox, which can cause the person to develop chickenpox.
Symptoms of Shingles
One of the most common symptoms of shingles is a painful rash. The rash is usually accompanied by a sensation of burning or itching. The rash can form a band, usually on one side of the body, and can be red, painful, and have small blisters filled with fluid. It is usually most prominent on the torso, but can appear anywhere on the body.
Pain is another common symptom of shingles. People typically describe the pain as a burning or shooting sensation that can range from mild to severe. The pain may be present even before the rash appears.
In addition to the rash and pain, some people experience other, less common symptoms of shingles such as fever, headache, chills, and upset stomach. Sometimes the virus can affect the eyes, leading to vision loss or eye pain. Other neurological symptoms can include confusion, dizziness, and even seizures.
It is important to be aware of the symptoms of shingles in order to identify it and seek medical attention. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to seek medical attention, as shingles can lead to long-term complications and even death in some cases.
Diagnosis of Shingles
The first step in diagnosing shingles is to look for the telltale rash. It typically appears on one side of the body as a line or stripe of blisters. The rash may be accompanied by itching, burning, or tingling in the same area. In some cases, the rash may also be accompanied by a fever, headache, or pain in the affected areas.
In order to make a definitive diagnosis, a health care provider will also likely order a blood test to check for antibodies to the varicella-zoster virus. This test is called a VZV IgG titer. If the test is positive, it confirms that the person has been infected with the virus and is at risk of developing shingles.
If the results of the VZV IgG titer are negative, the health care provider may order additional tests to rule out other causes of the rash. This could include a biopsy of the rash, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, or a computed tomography (CT) scan.
Prevention and Treatment of Shingles
The best way to prevent shingles is to get vaccinated. The shingles vaccine is a one-time shot that can help reduce the risk of getting shingles by up to 50%. It is recommended for people 60 years of age and older and those who have had chickenpox. It is also available for people aged 50-59, although the effectiveness of the vaccine may be lower in this age group.
If you think you may have shingles, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Early treatment can help reduce the severity of the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment may involve antiviral medications to reduce the duration and intensity of the infection. Pain medications can also be used to help manage the pain.
In addition to medical treatment, there are also a number of home remedies that may help relieve the pain and discomfort of shingles. Applying cool compresses to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and provide some relief. Moisturizing the skin can help reduce itching and discomfort. Over-the-counter creams and ointments may also help soothe the skin.
It is also important to take steps to reduce stress and get plenty of rest, as this can help the body fight off the virus more effectively. Eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids can help reduce the risk of dehydration, which can make symptoms worse. Avoiding activities that increase stress, such as exercise, can also help prevent flare-ups.