What is Shingles?
Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you recover from chickenpox, the virus can stay in your body. Later in life, it may become active again and cause shingles. Because of this, many adults are at risk. Shingles and its vaccination are important topics for adults who want to stay healthy.
Symptoms of Shingles
Shingles symptoms often start with pain or tingling on one side of the body. Soon after, a red rash appears. The rash usually forms blisters that scab over in 7 to 10 days. However, not everyone gets a rash right away. Other symptoms may include:
Sometimes, pain can last even after the rash is gone. This is called postherpetic neuralgia.
Causes and Risk Factors
Shingles happens when the chickenpox virus becomes active again. While anyone who had chickenpox can get shingles, some people are at higher risk. For example, your risk increases as you get older. Other risk factors include:
Because of these risks, preventing shingles is important, especially for adults over 50.
Diagnosis of Shingles
Doctors usually diagnose shingles by looking at your rash and asking about your symptoms. Sometimes, they may take a small sample from a blister to test for the virus. Early diagnosis helps you get the right treatment. If you notice a painful rash, contact your doctor quickly.
Shingles Vaccination: Types and Effectiveness
There are two main types of shingles vaccines: Shingrix and Zostavax. Shingrix is the preferred vaccine in many countries, including the United States. It is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications. Zostavax is less effective and is used less often now. According to the CDC, Shingrix protects most adults for at least four years. Because of its high shingles vaccine effectiveness, many doctors recommend it for adults over 50.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
Most adults aged 50 and older should get the shingles vaccine. Even if you had shingles before, the vaccine can help prevent future outbreaks. The CDC also recommends the vaccine for adults with weakened immune systems. However, some people should not get the vaccine, such as those with severe allergies to vaccine ingredients. Always talk to your doctor before getting vaccinated.
Possible Side Effects of the Vaccine
Like all vaccines, the shingles vaccine can cause side effects. Most are mild and go away in a few days. Common side effects include:
Serious side effects are rare. If you have concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Prevention and Lifestyle Tips
While the vaccine is the best way to prevent shingles, you can also take other steps. For example, keep your immune system strong by eating healthy foods and getting enough sleep. In addition, manage stress and avoid contact with people who have chickenpox if you have never had it. If you do get shingles, keep the rash clean and covered to avoid spreading the virus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Consult a healthcare provider to learn if the shingles vaccine is right for you.