What Causes Shingles in Adults?
July 25, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissue near the spinal cord and brain. In some individuals, the virus can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles. The exact reason why the virus reactivates is not fully understood, but several factors can trigger its reactivation in adults:
- Weakening Immune System: A weakened immune system can be one of the primary reasons for the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. As people age, their immune system may become less effective in keeping the virus in check. Conditions that can weaken the immune system include aging itself, certain diseases (e.g., HIV/AIDS), undergoing cancer treatments (chemotherapy or radiation therapy), or taking immunosuppressive medications (e.g., after an organ transplant).
- Stress: Prolonged physical or emotional stress can potentially weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to keep the virus under control and leading to shingles in some cases.
- Age: The risk of shingles increases with age, and it is more common in older adults.
- History of Chickenpox: Shingles can only occur in individuals who have previously had chickenpox. If someone has never had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine, they cannot develop shingles.
- Gender: Women are slightly more likely to develop shingles than men.
Shingles typically presents as a painful, blistering rash that often appears in a band or stripe on one side of the body. It commonly affects the torso or the face. In addition to the rash, individuals with shingles may experience pain, tingling, or burning sensations in the affected area.
Shingles is not directly transmitted from one person to another like chickenpox. However, the fluid-filled blisters of shingles contain the varicella-zoster virus, and direct contact with the rash can lead to chickenpox in individuals who have never had the disease or received the vaccine.
If you suspect you have shingles or are experiencing any symptoms consistent with the condition, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment can help alleviate symptoms, shorten the duration of the illness, and reduce the risk of complications. Antiviral medications and pain relief medications are often prescribed to manage the symptoms of shingles.