ANSWERS: 1
  • Shingles is caused by the same virus that triggers chickenpox but emerges later in life. One in five people who have had chickenpox will get shingles, and half of Americans will get it by the age of 80, according to the National Institutes of Health.

    Shingles Definition

    The varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, can lie dormant in your immune system for years, living in your nervous system. If it reactivates, it travels through your nerve endings to create sores or painful areas in certain areas of your body.

    Symptoms

    Shingles begins as a burning, itching, or tingling around the back, chest, rib cage, waist, or on the face or eye area. It can feel like a bruised area, form a rash or become blisters. Because it affects your nerves, it can be extremely painful.

    Infections

    The shingles sores can become infected with bacteria. That is why some doctors may tell you to keep fingernails trimmed and not to scratch.

    Chronic Pain

    Once the rash is healed, the pain can persist for months or years, called postherpetic neuralgia. The pain can be extreme and commonly occurs in those over age 60.

    Other Problems

    The muscles in the area of the shingles symptoms can feel weak before, during and afterward. The rashes also can cause scarring or skin discoloration.

    Source:

    NIH: Senior Health

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