What is shingles?

Shingles is a skin eruption characterized by clusters of small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on skin that is redder than normal. These blisters are usually located on an elongated area of ​​skin known as a “dermatome.” Dermatomes are areas of skin supplied by the same nerve. Shingles typically affects only one dermatome, which is why it has a characteristic “shingle-like” appearance. Occasionally, it can spread to two or three dermatomes, or even cause scattered pimples around the shingles.

The blisters gradually turn into black scabs over several days, taking on a rather unsightly appearance. Within a few weeks, these scabs fall off, disappear, and the skin returns to normal.

Here you can see more pictures of shingles

In 3 out of 4 cases, the appearance of pimples is accompanied by pain in the affected area, which is usually described as burning, pricking, or simply a feeling of heightened sensitivity. These symptoms can appear days (or even weeks) before the pimples appear and last for up to a month after the pimples disappear.

The pain from shingles can start before and last for a while after the skin has healed.

Why does shingles appear?

It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same one that causes chickenpox. As we have mentioned before, we cannot eliminate viruses, so after recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in our bodies, causing no discomfort or problems for years.

It is caused by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus

It is possible that over time this virus may reactivate as shingles. It is more common in older people, but it can also occur in younger people with chronic illnesses, during periods of stress, or with weakened immune systems.

What complications can shingles cause?

Shingles usually heals without leaving any lasting effects. The most common complication (in almost 8 out of 100 cases) is pain that lasts longer than a month in the affected area, which can be very bothersome and prolonged. This is called postherpetic neuralgia. Sometimes, the skin where the spots appear can become infected with bacteria, which is easily treated.

Although infrequent, the most common complication is postherpetic neuralgia.

If it affects the periocular area, eye complications may occur that should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist. If it is in the ear, it could also cause complications that should be evaluated by an otolaryngologist. Neurological complications are rare.

Complications are more common in older people

In general, complications are more frequent the older the person suffering from it is and in immunocompromised people (such as HIV+ people or transplant recipients)

How is shingles treated?

Treatment for shingles is not mandatory. It usually clears up on its own after a few days, but since the medications used to treat it are quite safe, we typically prescribe a week of antiviral pills (such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or others). In addition, pain relievers like paracetamol, metamizole, or anti-inflammatories are often used.

The treatment reduces the duration of pimples and the pain.

The treatment helps shorten the duration of skin lesions, reduce pain, and prevent transmission. It is also believed to reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia. For this reason, it is especially important for older adults and immunocompromised individuals. It is best to start treatment within the first three days.

Is shingles contagious?

There is a possibility of transmission through skin-to-skin contact with the lesions themselves, especially when they are blisters and break open. Contagiousness decreases once treatment begins. Although it is the varicella-zoster virus, which is transmitted through the air, this is not the case with shingles.

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