Although shingles is not a disease that poses a threat to life, it can cause severe pain and significantly disrupt daily activities and overall well-being. If you have previously experienced shingles, you might be curious about the possibility of its recurrence. Here is what you need to know.
Can Shingles Return After You’ve Had It?
Approximately one in three individuals in the United States will experience shingles at some point during their lives. Moreover, research has revealed that approximately 6% of individuals may experience shingles more than once in their lifetime.
In short, if you are someone who has had shingles before, there is a chance that you will experience a recurring episode in the future.
What Causes Shingles to Come Back?
Shingles is a medical condition that occurs due to the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus responsible for causing chickenpox. After a person gets infected with chickenpox, the virus remains inactive in the body’s nerve tissue. However, after a considerable amount of time, the virus has the potential to become active again and manifest as shingles.
This virus can be reactivated and cause symptoms to return in response to stress, certain medications, or other medical conditions. Medical professionals often use the term “recurrent shingles” to describe this phenomenon. Additionally, recurrent shingles tend to be more prevalent among individuals who have a weakened immune system.
Is It Contagious?
It is possible for the virus to be transmitted from an individual with active shingles to someone who has never contracted chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine. If an individual is exposed to the virus, they would typically develop chickenpox rather than shingles. Ultimately, when you have an active case of shingles, you are susceptible to spreading the virus until each blister has completely healed and formed a scab.
Symptoms of Shingles
Recurrent shingles present symptoms that are similar to those experienced during the initial outbreak. Tingling or localized pain in the area may occur two to four days before the onset of shingles rash symptoms. In general, shingles symptoms may include:
- Red, flat rashes with fluid-filled blisters
- Tingling or burning sensation
- Itching
- Skin sensitivity
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Fever
- Chills
- Upset stomach
Find Treatment for Shingles in Marina Del Rey, CA
People aged 60 and over are encouraged to get the new shingles vaccination. Although it has not been shown to completely eliminate the possibility of an outbreak, it does significantly minimize its likelihood and severity if it were to occur.
Dr. Nita Patel is a board-certified dermatologist in Marina Del Rey, CA, who provides an extensive range of medical and cosmetic services to individuals seeking to address a variety of skin concerns and conditions. For more information about the treatment and prevention of shingles, schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel and our team today by calling (310) 577-7544.
