Shingles Specialist

What Causes Shingles?

Shingles are caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox in children. The varicella zoster virus can lay dormant for many years in people who have had chickenpox as a child. It is unsure what causes the virus to "wake up" or become active, but when it does, the result is an extremely painful rash that can erupt on almost any portion of the body. Doctors believe that exposure to environmental toxins, extreme levels of stress, a depressed immune system, or an allergic reaction may trigger a shingles outbreak. Each person is different when it comes to where the rash appears and the severity with which it presents itself.

What Are the Symptoms of Shingles?

One of the first symptoms of shingles is pain in a small section of the body, normally only on one side. A few days after the pain begins, a red, painful rash appears. Small blisters can form and begin to ooze a clear liquid. The rash may begin to itch and will be extremely sensitive to the touch. People have also reported having other, more generalized symptoms including headache, fever, extreme fatigue, and sensitivity to bright lights. The pain from the rash can last for several days, even after it begins to disappear. Numbness and tingling may also be felt as the rash does have an adverse effect on the nerve endings in the area.

Which Comes First, Chickenpox or Shingles?

Individuals who have not had chickenpox will not get shingles because the virus has never had a chance to infect the body. If a person receives the vaccine for chickenpox or shingles, their risk of contracting the illness will be dramatically reduced. Shingles can only appear in people who have been exposed to the varicella zoster virus and have had chickenpox at an earlier age. When the body is exposed to chickenpox, it creates antibodies that help to push the virus into dormancy. If a person never had chickenpox or was never exposed to it, the virus was never allowed to take hold within the body.

How is Shingles Treated?

Once someone has shingles, treatment is primarily focused on keeping them comfortable while the body heals. Antiviral medications are most effective if started within the first three days and may help prevent postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). PHN is nerve damage resulting from the shingles virus. Dr. Yanamadula helps patients dealing with this painful condition with a treatment plan customized to meet their needs and lifestyle. While PHN cannot be healed, the symptoms can be managed with a variety of treatments including prescription medication, nerve blocks, or physical treatments like TENS machines and cold therapy. Some patients also benefit from psychosocial treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes.