What is Shingles?

Herpes zoster, another name for shingles, is a contagious viral infection that results in a painful rash. Its development is due to the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. After a person has chickenpox, the virus remains inactive (dormant) in the body. It can reactivate later in life and cause shingles.

Symptoms of shingles include:

• Pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in a specific area on one side of the body
• a few days later, a red rash with clusters of tiny, fluid-filled blisters appears.
• Fever, headache, and feeling unwell
• Itching

Although it can strike anyone at any age, shingles are more prevalent in persons over the age of 50. It is more likely to affect people whose immune systems are already weak, such as those who are HIV-positive, have cancer, or take immunosuppressant medications.

Treatment for shingles usually involves antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of the infection, as well as pain medication to help with discomfort. In some cases, a vaccine called the shingles vaccine is available to help prevent the development of shingles in people over the age of 50. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment, it’s crucial to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you may have shingles.

Every year, shingles impact around 1 million people in the US. As you become older, your risk of developing shingles increases; people over 50 accounts for over half of all cases. Approximately 10% of people who have already had chickenpox get shingles.

Among the early signs of shingles are:

• Fever.
• Chills.
• Headache.
• Being worn out.
• Light sensitivity.
• upset stomach