Shingles and Chickenpox: Can You Get Shingles After Chickenpox?

Yes, you can still get shingles even if you've already had chickenpox. This is because the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, remains dormant in your nerve cells after you've had the disease. Years or decades later, the virus can reactivate and cause shingles.

The risk of developing shingles increases as you get older. Other factors that can increase your risk include:

-A weakened immune system, such as from cancer, HIV/AIDS, or certain medications

-Stress

-Recent trauma or surgery

-Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene and formaldehyde

- Being pregnant

Shingles typically causes a painful rash and blisters on one side of the body. Other symptoms can include fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light.

If you think you may have shingles, see your doctor right away. Early treatment can help to reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of complications.