Shinglesalso known as herpes zosteris due to the varicella-zoster virus, the same one that causes chickenpox.
Plus, what to know about the shingles vaccine.
Who is at risk for shingles?
Getty Images
To be at risk for shingles, you have to have been previously infected with the chicken pox virus.
Aging, illness, stress, and certain immunosuppressing medical treatments can cause the virus to reactivate.
People with a weakened immune system are also at risk for reactivation of the virus.
What are the symptoms of shingles?
The herpes zoster virus can lay dormant in nerve cells for decades.
Next, a painful rash develops with fluid-filled blisters in the area ofskinconnected to the infected nerve.
(Though these systemic symptoms are less common in otherwise healthy individuals, Dr. Marmon says.)
Typically, the rash appears on just one side of the bodyusually in a stripe on the torso.
HZO is also a risk factor for potentially life-threatening strokes and other serious neurological complications, says Dr. Cohen.
Other complications of shingles include bacterial infection and long-term nerve pain, or postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
How long does shingles last?
So, how long does shingles last?
The virus will run its course in about 3-5 weeks, according to theNational Institute on Aging.
One to five days after you first notice the tingling or burning sensation, the oozing rash appears.
After that, it takes a week to 10 days for the fluid-filled blisters to scab over.
It will likely take another week to two weeks for the scabs to disappear completely.
Nerve pain sparked by postherpetic neuralgia may last longer, notes Dr. Marmon.
Should I get the shingles vaccine?
Shingles rates are on the rise, particularly in people in their 50s.
Those with a weakened immune system should get vaccinated starting at age 19, says Dr. Cohen.
What if Ive already had shingles?
The Shingrix vaccine recommendation applies to everyoneeven if youve already had shingles or the chickenpox vaccine.
(Or the older zostavax vaccine.)
Ask your healthcare professional about the best time toget vaccinatedafter a case of shingles.
Youre eligible for the vaccine following infection as soon as the shingles rash clears, according to theCDC.
