What is Shingles - Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Are you wondering - what is shingles?

Shingles is basically a virus that manifests itself in the form of a skin rash. It is also the same virus that causes chickenpox.

The virus itself is called the Varicella zoster virus and it is part of the Herpes family, although it is not Herpes.

Essentially, if you had chickenpox when you were younger, then the virus continued to live in your nervous system and never really went away. Later on, while you are an adult, certain things can trigger the virus to raise its ugly head again. So what types of things can make shingles appear? What is shingles triggered by?

There really isn't one known trigger for shingles, although there are things that can make you more vulnerable to breakouts. A weakened immune system is one thing that can make your body more at risk for shingles. People who have immune deficiencies from diseases such as cancer, AIDS, and HIV can find themselves at higher risk of getting shingles.

As we discuss what is shingles caused by, it is worthwhile to note that emotional stress can also lead to shingles, although there is usually some other trigger involved as well. When your body is under emotional stress, it can lead to physical stress. This might manifest itself in sleep deprivation and chronic anxiety, which can actually weaken the immune system and make your body less efficient in fighting off diseases and viruses.

Unfortunately, sometimes, the cause of shingles is never known. You might have an outbreak of shingles and never really be able to tell how you got it or where it came from.

Shingles is contagious as well. If you are affected with it, then you can spread it to children or other adults who have not previously had chickenpox. However, when they catch it, it will not manifest itself as shingles, but will show up as chickenpox. If both parties have already had chickenpox, however, then you won't be able to pass your shingles on. You also won't be able to pass on the shingles once the blisters have disappeared.

What is shingles characterized by? What are the signs and symptoms of shingles?

Some common symptoms associated with shingles include a low-grade fever, general flu-like symptoms, hot flashes or chills, physical exhaustion, an upset stomach including diarrhea, and the rash. In fact, when it comes to the question of what is shingles characterized by, it is the rash that most people associate with the condition.

The rash usually begins as pale pink bumps and, over time, gradually turns into red blisters filled with fluid. They are painful to the touch and will probably itch. The area around the rash might continue to be painful even after the rash disappears, which could be anywhere from a week to 6 weeks. The area continues to be painful because the nerves are affected. The rash itself is not just superficial.

What is shingles treated with, then?

Treatments that can be sought for shingles include both natural solutions and medications prescribed by your doctor. Most of the natural treatments revolve around treating the symptoms associated with shingles, like the burning and itching.

In addition, building up your immune system is also a good place to start, as it can help your body fight off the virus. If you develop any rash on your face, however, it's important to seek medical assistance, since your eyesight could be affected by the virus if it gets into your cornea.

If you wish to learn more about what is shingles, you may want to read the other related shingles articles and pages on this website.

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