Shingles
What causes shingles ?
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox; the varicella zoster virus.
Following chickenpox infection, usually during childhood, the chickenpox virus remains inactive in the body. Some “trigger factor” reactivates the virus in later life to cause shingles.
Most people only have shingles once in a lifetime, but in a small proportion of cases it can recur.
Are you likely to get shingles ?
You only get shingles if you have had chickenpox and the older you are the greater the chance of you having shingles. Over half of the population will have had shingles by the age of 85.
Shingles occurs when your body feels “run down” due to stress, illness, shock or sometimes medical treatment.
What are the signs and symptoms ?
Shingles is a rash of blisters on the skin accompanied
by a severe stinging pain.
To start you may feel slightly feverish and your skin may
feel painful and “prickly” over the area where the rash will appear. After 2—3 days blisters will appear
and form a narrow band on one side of the body or face.
For
about a week new blisters will appear. The blisters will itch and then start to dry up, forming crusts
or scabs which will then disappear.
It is possible to have shingles anywhere on the
body. The rash most commonly appears on the chest, stomach and back.
How long does it last ?
Shingles usually lasts for 2—3 weeks. However, some patients may experience pain at the site of the rash for six months or even longer.
Are there any complications with shingles ?
Most cases of shingles will clear up within one month. In some cases however, complications may arise.
The most common complication is a prolonged and often uncomfortable pain which can last for weeks or even months. The chances of getting this pain are greater the older you are.
If I think I have shingles, what shall i do ?
If you suspect that you have shingles, see a doctor immediately. It is important not to touch the rash. It could become infected and take longer to heal. The blisters in shingles may contain active virus. To stop the spread of virus, avoid close contact with other people. Wear loose fitting clothes to ease the pressure or rubbing on the rash. Resting ice cubes (in a flannel) against the rash or bathing in cool water may help. A soothing lotion like calamine can also bring relief. It is important to slow down, rest properly and to eat sensibly.
What about going to work or school ?
Shingles is not as infectious as chickenpox. However, you may feel quite unwell for a few days. Return to work only if you feel well enough and the rash has either dried up or is capable of being covered up by clothing
FURTHER INFORMATION
This page gives general information.
If you require further details, please contact :
Kennet District Council Environmental Health Tel : 01380 724911
Wiltshire Health Protection Agency Tel : 01380 732599
Your GP