Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Health Guide

Understanding Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox.

After chickenpox infection, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue. Years later, it may reactivate, usually in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

Causes

• Reactivation of varicella-zoster virus
  
  

• Weakened immunity (age, illness, stress)
  
  

• Immunosuppressive medications
  
  

Symptoms

• Pain, burning, or tingling sensation (before rash)
  
  

• Red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters
  
  

• Rash usually appears on one side of the body or face
  
  

• Itching and sensitivity to touch
  
  

• Fever, headache, fatigue
  
  

Risk Factors

• Age over 50
  
  

• Previous chickenpox infection
  
  

• Weakened immune system (HIV, cancer, transplant)
  
  

• Chronic stress
  
  

Complications

• Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN): Long-term nerve pain after rash heals
  
  

• Vision loss: If shingles affects the eye (ophthalmic shingles)
  
  

• Skin infections: From open blisters
  
  

• Neurological problems: Rare (encephalitis, hearing loss)

Diagnosis

• Physical exam (rash pattern)
  
  

• Medical history (previous chickenpox)
  
  

• Lab tests (if diagnosis uncertain)
  
  

Prevention

• Shingles vaccine (Shingrix): Recommended for adults 50+
  
  

• Reduce stress and maintain healthy immune function
  
  

At-Home Management

• Cool compresses for rash
  
  

• Calamine lotion or oatmeal baths for itching
  
  

• Loose clothing to reduce irritation
  
  

• OTC pain relievers for mild pain
  
  

When to Seek Medical Care

• Rash near the eyes or ears
  
  

• Severe or widespread rash
  
  

• Signs of infection (pus, spreading redness)
  
  

• Persistent nerve pain after rash resolves
  
  

FAQs

Q1: Can you get shingles more than once?
Yes, though it’s uncommon.

Q2: Is shingles contagious?
You cannot catch shingles, but someone who has never had chickenpox may develop chickenpox from direct contact with blisters.

Q3: How long does shingles last?
Usually 2–4 weeks.

Q4: What is postherpetic neuralgia?
Nerve pain that lasts for months or years after shingles rash heals.

Q5: Can young people get shingles?
Yes, but it’s much more common in adults over 50.

Q6: Does stress trigger shingles?
Stress can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of reactivation.

Conclusion

Shingles is a painful but preventable condition. Vaccination greatly reduces risk, and early treatment can lessen severity and complications.

📖 Learn more from the CDC Shingles Information.