Understanding Shingles: Causes, Symptoms & Risk Factors

Shingles is a viral infection caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. It causes a painful rash that usually starts in the middle of your back and travels around one side to the breast bone.

The Facts

• Once you have had chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue. This virus can reactivate at any time as shingles.

Causes and Risk Factors

• The reason the virus sometimes reactivates is unknown. You are more likely to develop shingles if you are over 50, have a weakened immune system or developed chickenpox before you were a year old.

Symptoms

• Pain, burning or tingling may be experienced before there is a rash. A red rash begins a few days after the pain. Fluid-filled red blisters may break open. Some people experience itching, as well as fever, chills, achiness, fatigue and headache.

Treatment

• Shingles usually heals on its own within a few weeks. Antiviral drugs are most effective if prescribed within 72 hours of the first sign of a rash. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication if you experience severe pain.

Considerations

• If you have shingles, the virus can be spread to anyone who hasn't had chickenpox. Chickenpox can be dangerous to pregnant women, newborns or anyone with a weakened immune system.