Shingles: A Comprehensive Guide
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. Although anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles later in life, it is more common in older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection that primarily affects the skin and nerves. Once a person recovers from chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in the body’s nerve tissues near the spinal cord and brain. For reasons not entirely understood, the virus can reactivate years or even decades later, causing shingles.
Signs and Symptoms of Shingles
Shingles symptoms typically develop in stages and are often localised to one side of the body or face.
Early Symptoms (1–5 Days Before Rash):
- Pain or Tingling: A burning or tingling sensation in a specific area, usually on one side of the body.
- Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to touch.
- Flu-Like Symptoms: Mild fever, headache, fatigue, or chills without a rash.
Rash and Blistering Stage:
- Rash Appearance: A red rash develops in the affected area, often forming a stripe or band-like pattern along a nerve pathway.
- Blisters: Fluid-filled blisters appear and eventually burst, leaving behind crusted scabs.
- Itching and Pain: Severe itching and sharp, shooting pain in the rash area.
Post-Rash Symptoms:
- Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN): Persistent nerve pain in the rash area even after the blisters heal, common in older adults.
- Scarring: In rare cases, scarring may occur after the rash heals.
Rare Symptoms:
- Facial Involvement: Shingles near the eyes can cause vision problems.
- Hearing Loss: When shingles affect the ear, it can lead to hearing loss or balance issues (Ramsay Hunt syndrome).
Causes of Shingles
Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which remains dormant in the nerve cells after an initial chickenpox infection.
Weakened Immune System
- Aging (most cases occur in individuals aged 50 or older).
- Conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or autoimmune diseases.
- Immunosuppressive treatments, such as chemotherapy or long-term steroid use.
Stress
- Chronic stress may impair the immune system, increasing the likelihood of reactivation.
Physical Trauma
- Injury near the nerve roots can sometimes trigger shingles.
Regions Where Shingles is Endemic
Shingles occurs worldwide, as it is related to the global prevalence of chickenpox. Regions with limited chickenpox vaccination programs may have higher rates of shingles, as more people are exposed to the varicella-zoster virus.
Higher-Risk Groups by Geography:
- Developed countries with aging populations (eg., the U.S., Europe, and Japan).
Tropical and subtropical regions where chickenpox is more common year-round.
Shingles Vaccination
Benefits of Vaccination:
- Reduces the risk of developing shingles by 90%.
- Lowers the likelihood of postherpetic neuralgia.
- Protects against severe symptoms and complications.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
- Adults aged 50 and older.
- Individuals aged 18 and older with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions.
Why Vaccinate at Trio Pharmacy's Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton?
If you’re planning to travel to an endemic region or want to protect yourself against shingles, Trio Pharmacy’s Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton is your trusted destination.
- Expert Guidance: Our trained healthcare professionals provide personalised advice tailored to your needs.
- Convenient Appointments: Flexible booking options to suit your schedule.
- Comprehensive Care: We ensure you receive the most up-to-date vaccinations and travel health information.