Shingles are painful, itchy blisters caused by a virus known as varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After causing chickenpox, it tends to stay hidden until it resurfaces as shingles later on.
In this blog, we will discuss what causes shingles to activate!
Common Shingle Triggers
If you have had chickenpox, chances are you may develop shingles. Here are some common factors that trigger the re-activation of this virus:
- Age
Age is a common factor that causes shingles to activate. It is common in people over 50 due to a weakened immune system, especially if they previously had chickenpox. - Weakened Immune System
A weakened immune system can be a result of multiple factors, such as medical conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other auto-immune diseases. Mental stress also significantly contributes to a weakened immune system. - Physical Trauma
Physical trauma can liven this virus that has been lying dormant in the nerve tissue for years or even decades. This includes injuries like burns, cuts, or sunburns. - Medicinal Side Effect
Certain drugs tend to suppress the immune system, such as chemotherapy drugs or steroids. This can serve as a trigger for shingle activation. - Exposure to Varicella-zoster Virus
Shingles can be activated or re-activated if you come in contact with someone suffering from chicken pox or shingles themselves. The contraction is mainly caused by the fluid inside shingle blisters.
How To Prevent Shingles From Activating
Combining vaccination and healthy habits is important to reduce the risk of shingles. Here’s how:
- Vaccination
The CDC recommends the Shingrix vaccine for adults 50 and older. It involves two doses, 2 to 6 months apart, and is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications. Additionally, vaccinating children against chickenpox can also prevent shingles later in life. - Healthy Habits
Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly to keep your immune system strong.
Stress, on the other hand, can also weaken your immune system. Hence, practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga can help manage stress effectively. - Extra Precautions
If you have shingles, keep the rash covered and avoid contact with people who haven’t had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, especially infants and those with weak immune systems.
How To Suspect Shingles?
Shingles primarily appear as a rash or blisters on one side of the body or face. These rashes are painful and itchy, accompanied by a burning or tingling sensation. In some cases, patients report the occurrence of fever, chills, headache, and fatigue, too.
If you suspect similar symptoms, it is important to seek medical care promptly. While shingles may resolve on their own after a few days or weeks, getting professional treatment can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
Final Words
Shingles, an extension of chickenpox, may reactivate after several years due to age, weakened immune system, physical trauma, medicinal side effects, and exposure to the virus. However, preventive measures such as vaccines and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent shingles from activating.
If you suspect similar symptoms of shingles, consult our highly qualified doctors at Genesis Pain Clinic for quick diagnosis and effective pain-relieving treatments. Call us at (913) 871-9888 for additional queries.