If you are over 50, or have a weakened immune system, your risk of developing shingles is increased. While most people who get the virus will recover fully, it is possible to develop shingles more than once.

Once you have chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in your body. Age, stress, and certain medications can cause the virus to re-activate in the form of shingles.

What Do Shingles Look Like?

The shingles rash is red and is made up of fluid-filled blisters that have crusted over. It will normally be limited to one small area of the body, and will often be very painful.

Are There Other Symptoms of Shingles?

Before seeing the rash, you might experience a headache, sensitivity to light, and a general ill feeling, as if you have the flu.

Next, you might notice tingling, pain, or itching in an isolated area, followed in a few days by the rash.
You might also experience dizziness, weakness, changes in vision and difficulty thinking.

Not every person will experience all of these symptoms.

How Long Does Shingles Last?

The rash usually lasts 2 – 4 weeks. However, the rash can leave permanent scars, and complications can occur that lead to nerve damage.

What Do I Do If I Think I Have Shingles?

If you suspect you have shingles, come in to Quick Med Care right away. Your provider can prescribe medications to help the rash go away sooner and ease the pain. Getting treatment early can reduce your risk of complications and permanent damage.

It is especially important to seek immediate treatment is you have shingles on your face or around your eye. Permanent damage to your vision is possible.

Can I Spread Shingles to Someone Else?

While shingles is caused by a virus, it cannot be transmitted to another person. However, it is possible, in rare cases, to spread the chicken pox virus to another. Limit contact with any unvaccinated children.

Can I Prevent Shingles?

There is a vaccine available to adults that can reduce your risk of contracting the shingles virus by 50 percent. It is still possible to get shingles after receiving the vaccine, however the severity and duration of the outbreak is lessened.

The vaccine is approved for adults over 50. Most Medicare Part D plans cover the vaccine, but check your specific coverage for details. Contact your primary care physician if you are interested in the vaccine.

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