What Is Shingles & Why Does It Occur?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate years later as shingles, usually due to weakened immunity.
Common Triggers for Shingles Reactivation:
- Weakened immune system – Age, illness, or medications can trigger outbreaks.
- Stress and fatigue – High-stress levels can contribute to virus reactivation.
- Certain medical treatments – Chemotherapy, radiation, or immunosuppressive drugs increase risk.
- Aging – Older adults (50+) are at higher risk.
- Underlying conditions – Diseases like diabetes or autoimmune disorders can raise susceptibility.
Shingles is not contagious, but the varicella-zoster virus can spread to someone who has never had chickenpox, leading them to develop chickenpox, not shingles. This happens through direct contact with the fluid from blisters.
Who Needs Shingles Treatment?
Shingles treatment is essential for individuals who:
- Experience painful, blistering rashes.
- Have symptoms like burning, tingling, or nerve pain.
- Are at risk of complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
- Develop rashes near the eyes or on the face.
- Have a weakened immune system and need prompt antiviral therapy.
Stages of Shingles & Their Symptoms
Shingles progresses through different phases:
- Prodromal Phase: Tingling, itching, or burning sensation on the skin.
- Acute Rash Phase: Painful, red patches develop into fluid-filled blisters.
- Scabbing Phase: Blisters dry out and form scabs over 7-10 days.
- Healing Phase: The rash fades, but nerve pain may persist (postherpetic neuralgia).
Common symptoms include:
- Localized pain or burning sensation.
- Clusters of fluid-filled blisters along one side of the body.
- Itching, sensitivity, or tingling before the rash appears.
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, fatigue).
Best Ways to Treat Shingles
Shingles is treated with antiviral medications, pain relief strategies, and skincare adjustments to speed up healing and reduce discomfort.
Antiviral Medications for Shingles:
- Aciclovir (Acyclovir): Shortens the duration and severity of shingles if taken early.
- Valaciclovir (Valtrex): Same objective as Aciclovir, but more convenient dosing and effective at reducing viral replication.
- Famciclovir: Same as valaciclovir but even more convenient dosing.
Pain Relief & Symptom Management:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Topical creams containing capsaicin may help reduce nerve pain.
- Cold compresses and calamine lotion to soothe itching and discomfort.
Preventing Long-Term Nerve Pain (Postherpetic Neuralgia – PHN):
- Early antiviral treatment reduces the risk of PHN.
- Nerve pain medications such as gabapentin or amitriptyline may be prescribed for severe cases.
- Corticosteroids for select cases can help manage inflammation.
How to Prevent Shingles Flare-Ups
Although shingles cannot always be avoided, prevention strategies can reduce risk:
- Get the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) – Recommended for adults over 50 to reduce the likelihood and severity of shingles.
- Manage stress effectively – Chronic stress can weaken the immune system.
- Maintain a healthy diet – Nutrient-rich foods help support immunity.
- Exercise regularly – Moderate physical activity strengthens immune defenses.
- Avoid direct contact with people who have weakened immune systems if you have active blisters.
