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Shingles
Shingles Treatment
Shingles, aka herpes zoster, is an infection due to the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles typically occurs in adults and presents as a painful, blistering rash that usually affects one side of the body or face. The rash often follows a band-like pattern, often preceded by symptoms such as itching, burning, or tingling in the affected area. In addition to the skin rash, shingles can cause severe pain, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms. If left untreated, shingles can lead to long-term complications, including nerve damage, scarring, and chronic pain known as postherpetic neuralgia.
Shingles can affect anyone who has a history of chickenpox, but there is a higher likelihood of it occurring in older adults and people with weakened immune systems. When seeking treatment for Shingles in Northbrook, IL, a dermatologist will perform a thorough evaluation to recommend a treatment plan after confirming the diagnosis. A critical factor in reducing the severity and duration of an outbreak is early treatment with antiviral medications. Pain management strategies may also be employed to alleviate discomfort during recovery. If you’re experiencing symptoms of shingles, consider booking an appointment at The Derm Collective North Shore in Northbrook, IL, to receive prompt and effective care.
Benefits of Treating Shingles
- Reduces the severity of symptoms
- Shortens the duration of the outbreak
- Minimizes the risk of long-term complications
- Prevents scarring
- Alleviates pain and discomfort
- Decreases the likelihood of postherpetic neuralgia
- Improves overall quality of life during recovery
- Limits the spread of the virus to others
- Enhances immune response to the virus
- Provides professional care and monitoring throughout treatment
Faqs
Yes, the likelihood of contracting shingles can be reduced with a vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for adults over 50 years of age and those with weakened immune systems.
It is not contagious to have shingles, but the varicella-zoster virus can cause chickenpox in people who have never had it. Direct contact between blisters of the shingles virus and the fluid that leaks from them can cause the virus to spread from one person to another.
A shingles outbreak typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks, with the rash going through stages of blistering, crusting over, and healing. It is possible to shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the symptoms by early treatment.
Early signs of shingles include itching, burning, or tingling in a specific area of the body, followed by the development of a red rash that eventually turns into fluid-filled blisters.
Yes, shingles can recur, although it is uncommon. Those who have had shingles once have a slightly higher risk of developing it again, particularly if they are older or have a weakened immune system.
Yes, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible if you suspect you have shingles. Taking antiviral medication within 72 hours of a rash’s appearance is the most effective course of treatment.
