Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk for getting shingles, a reactivation of the chickenpox virus that affects more than a million Americans each and every year. Shingles becomes more common the older you get, and in some instances may lead to unwanted complications. At Houston Skin, we offer both treatment for active shingles outbreaks and preventative vaccinations to help you reduce your risk of shingles.
Causes and Risk Factors
The chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster virus, or VZV) can remain dormant in your body for years, later reactivating as shingles. Your risk for shingles activation increases dramatically past age 50, and can also be triggered by factors such as an immune system weakened by stress or sickness. Medical treatments that compromise the immune system may also heighten your risk of shingles.
Symptoms of Shingles
You may experience some early symptoms during the prodrome phase of shingles, including tingling, burning, or pain in a specific area. Later your shingles may move into the rash phase, characterized by a painful, blistering rash that usually appears on one side of the body, often wrapping around the torso or face.
Other symptoms associated with shingles include headache, fever, and sensitivity to light.
Complications of Shingles
The most common and serious complication associated with shingles is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), which involves nerve pain that lasts for months or even years after your rash heals.
Also note that rashes near the eye can lead to ocular problems, while neurological problems and skin infections can also emerge as a result of shingles.
Diagnosis of Shingles
During your initial consultation, one of our dermatologists will perform a physical evaluation and also collect your medical history, specifically focusing on your experience with chickenpox. Lab testing may also be ordered to confirm the shingles diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Shingles
The effects of shingles can be mediated with a range of treatment options, which can include:
- Antiviral medications
- Topical pain relievers
- Nerve-blocking medications
- Cold compresses
- Calamine lotion
- Oatmeal baths
Free Acute Shingles Treatment: Swift Action for Faster Relief
We understand the urgency of shingles. That’s why Center for Clinical Studies and Houston Skin offers free treatment for acute shingles outbreaks within seven days of a rash outbreak.* Our goal is to help you find relief as quickly as possible and minimize the risk of complications. Don’t wait for the pain to worsen – contact us at the first sign of symptoms.
*Conditions may apply. Contact us for details.
Vaccination of Shingles
The best way to address shingles is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. The shingles vaccination is safe and effective, and we highly recommend it for anyone 50 years or older. Additionally, lifestyle interventions can be effective for minimizing your shingles risk. Focus on managing stress, getting sufficient sleep, and eating right to keep your immune system strong.
Living with Shingles
It is important to keep in mind that, while shingles is not contagious, VZV can spread to someone who has never had chickenpox, causing them to get chickenpox and therefore increasing their risk of having shingles later in life.
If you have symptoms of shingles, wish to prevent shingles, or desire to stop its spread to the people you love, we invite you to make an appointment with Houston Skin at your convenience.
Meet The Team
Our Houston team of Board-Certified Dermatologists and licensed skin care providers brings a wealth of experience and a passion for healthy skin. With extensive clinical experience and the highest levels of training, our doctors are committed to delivering exceptional care and achieving optimal results for every patient. We prioritize your comfort and safety, promoting a positive and reassuring experience throughout your journey to vibrant skin. We’re honored to be your trusted provider of quality medical dermatology care and your partners in achieving and maintaining your skin’s health.
Feel Good About Your Skin
Ready to unlock your skin’s full potential? Schedule a shingles treatment consultation at one of our convenient Houston Skin locations today. Our board-certified dermatologists will provide a personalized assessment and recommend the ideal treatments to help you achieve and maintain healthy, vibrant skin. Call now or schedule a consultation online to take the first step towards a more confident, radiant you.
