Shingles

GERNIE BALBIN     31st Oct 2023

Shingles

Understanding its Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Shingles is a viral infection that results in a painful, blistering rash and can affect people of all ages. Despite being a common condition, many individuals lack a clear understanding of what shingles is, how it develops, and what can be done to manage and prevent it. In this blog, we will delve into the world of shingles, exploring its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures.
What is shingles?

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in their nerve cells. Years later, sometimes decades, the virus may reactivate, causing shingles.

Who are prone to shingles?

Shingles can occur at any age, however, individuals who belong to this group are more vulnerable:

  • individuals aged 50 or more
  • individuals with a weakened immune system
  • individuals who had chickenpox in their first year of life


1 of 3 individuals will develop shingles at some point in their life with no known trigger.


Symptoms of shingles

  • rashes
  • fever and fatigue
  • blisters
  • headache
  • a burning, tingling or itching sensation
  • sensitivity to light

Around 2 to 3 days after the initial symptoms, a rash forms on sensitive skin, typically on one side of your body along a skin nerve known as a dermatome. Initially, it's painful red bumps, which soon turn into fluid-filled blisters, causing pain and itching. These blisters eventually burst and heal into a crusty surface within 2 weeks.


Parts of the body that can be affected by shingles include:

  • face
  • chest area
  • back
  • abdomen
  • pelvis


Causes if shingles

  • aging
  • weakened immune system
  • stress
  • infections
  • previous chickenpox


Once you've had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells near your spine until it reactivates, causing shingles. Shingles is not contagious from person to person.

However, if you've never had chickenpox, you can contract it from someone with shingles. The virus spreads through contact with the fluid in the blisters of an infected person.


Managing the rash

  • do not to scratch
  • keep your rash dry and clean
  • wear loose fitting clothes
  • use cooled towel on the affected area
  • if possible cover your rash to avoid spreading to other people, use a non-stick dressing or light clothing
  • avoid band-aid on blisters or antibiotic cream as it slows down the healing process


Preventing Shingles

While it may not always be possible to prevent shingles, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  • Vaccination: Vaccination does not guarantee that you won't get shingles, but it will reduce your chance of developing the condition. It is recommended for the following group:
    • everyone aged 50 years and over 
    • individuals aged 18 years or older with a weak immune system 
    • individuals over 50 years who have contact with someone who has a weak immune system

Also see an article from ABC News about free shingles vaccine for older Australians.

  • Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress can help boost your immune system.
  • Avoid Close Contact: If you have shingles, avoid close contact with individuals who have not had chickenpox or are immunocompromised.
  • Practise Good Hygiene: Washing your hands frequently can reduce the risk of spreading the virus.


Side effects of the vaccine

The vaccine is very safe but you may experience the following side effects:

  • pain, redness, swelling or itching where the needle went in
  • headache
  • tiredness


Treatment for Shingles

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage shingles effectively and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment options may include:

  • antiviral Medications - talk to your doctors or healthcare professional about what is best for you. Same goes if you are pregnant, talk to your doctor first.
  • over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription medications
  • topical Creams - calamine lotion or creams containing capsaicin may help relieve itching.
  • cool compresses - applying cool, damp cloths to the affected area can provide relief from itching and discomfort.
  • take a good amount of rest and avoid stress


Complications of shingles

Shingles can sometimes lead to complications, though many people recover without any issues. If your shingles rash becomes infected, you might need antibiotics. Some of the complications are:

  • temporary or permanent vision loss especially if it occurred in the eye area. In such cases, your doctor may refer you to an eye specialist for treatment.
  • facial drooping and Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is also possible. Look out for symptoms like a rash around the ear, earache, hearing loss, and dizziness. If you experience these, consult your doctor.
  • post-herpetic neuralgia, a lingering pain and tingling sensation, can affect about 1 in 10 people, especially those over 50.


Where to get help


Sources:

1. Healthdirect. Shingles

2. Better Health Channel. Shingles





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