Shingles
A viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox) that affects skin dermatomes and causes painful lesions, burning, and numbness.
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What is Shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After you recover from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve tissue and can reactivate years later as shingles.
The condition typically affects one side of the body in a pattern following nerve distributions (dermatomes). While there is no cure for shingles, early treatment and vaccination can reduce severity and prevent complications like postherpetic neuralgia.
Common Signs
Painful rash in clusters of blisters
Rash limited to one side of the body
Burning sensation in affected area
Numbness or tingling
Itching
Fever
Fatigue or weakness
Sensitivity to touch
What Causes Shingles
Varicella-Zoster Virus
The same virus that causes chickenpox reactivates in nerve tissue
Previous Chickenpox Infection
The virus lies dormant in nerve cells after initial infection
Weakened Immune System
Age, stress, or immunosuppression allows virus reactivation
Age
Risk significantly increases after age 50
Stress
Physical or emotional stress can trigger reactivation
Potential Complications
Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
Lingering nerve pain that persists long after the rash heals
Vision Loss
Can occur if shingles develop around the eyes (ophthalmic shingles)
Facial Numbness
Persistent numbness affecting the face and facial muscles
Facial Paralysis
Temporary or prolonged weakness of facial muscles (Ramsay Hunt syndrome)
Secondary Bacterial Infection
Open blisters can become infected with bacteria
Hearing Loss
Can occur with shingles affecting the ear area
How We Treat Shingles
Early treatment is key to reducing pain and preventing complications. Our treatment approach combines antiviral medications to stop viral replication with pain management strategies tailored to your symptoms.
Antiviral Medications
Reduce viral replication and speed recovery when started early
Neuropathic Pain Medications
Manage nerve pain and numbness associated with shingles
Pain Management
Over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers
Corticosteroids
Reduce inflammation and may help prevent postherpetic neuralgia
Prevention & Vaccination
Shingrix vaccine (recommended for adults 50 and older)
Avoid contact with people who have active chickenpox
Keep the rash covered and clean
Don't scratch the blisters
Maintain good hygiene to prevent infection
Manage stress levels
Shingrix Vaccine: The CDC recommends the Shingrix vaccine for all adults age 50 and older, regardless of previous chickenpox infection. It's also recommended for immunocompromised adults age 18 and older. The vaccine is highly effective at preventing shingles and postherpetic neuralgia. Ask our providers if you're a candidate for vaccination.
Early Treatment is Important: Antiviral medications are most effective when started within 72 hours of rash onset. If you suspect shingles, seek medical attention promptly. There is no cure for shingles, but our comprehensive treatment approach can reduce pain, speed healing, and help prevent serious complications.