An intensely painful affliction, shingles often unveils itself as a localized rash punctuated with blisters, typically concentrated on one side of your face or body, and exudes a burning sensation. Predominantly emerging post the age of 50, this ailment knows no age barriers in Southlake. Delving into its origins, shingles sprouts from the reawakening of the chickenpox virus, contracted during one’s younger days. Once the chickenpox wanes, this dormant virus takes refuge in the spinal cord, only to resurrect as shingles later in life.
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chicken pox. Individuals who have previously had chicken pox—or, less commonly, its vaccine—are at risk of developing shingles.
Shingles arises when the dormant virus reactivates in certain nerves within the body. It typically affects those over 50 or individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with cancer, organ transplants, autoimmune diseases, or HIV. Although it is possible to get shingles more than once, it is uncommon.
While shingles itself is not contagious, a person with active shingles can pass the virus to someone who has never had chicken pox or the vaccine, potentially causing chicken pox in that individual.
Prescription antiviral medications like valacyclovir or acyclovir are typically recommended for shingles, ideally started within 72 hours of initial symptoms. Early treatment helps reduce the duration and severity of the rash and can prevent complications, including long-term pain.
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If you suspect you have shingles, please contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our clinicians.
