Overview

Shingles is a viral infection that results from the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Shingles usually affects one side of the body and creates a constant dull pain that comes and goes, a skin rash that resembles chicken pox, and fluid-filled blisters that develop as part of the rash. Shingles affect a single sensory nerve ganglion near the spinal cord, this is why only specific areas of the body are affected rather than all over. They typically appear on the waist, chest, abdomen, or back. People over the age of 50 are more susceptible to the virus.

Causes of shingles

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is the same virus that causes chicken pox. After getting chicken pox, the virus lies dormant in the spinal nerve cells. But it can be reactivated years later when the immune system is suppressed by:

• A serious illness
• Physical or emotional trauma
• Certain medications

Shingles treatment

After diagnoses, our providers will treat shingles with antiviral oral medication. With a healthy immune system, the blisters tend to clear in 7 to 10 days. The rash tends to go away completely within 2 to 4 weeks and the pain usually stops within 1 to 2 months.

If you have any concerns regarding shingles, please call our offices for an appointment.