Shingles

N. M. Hauprich / Photo Researchers, Inc

Shingles (herpes zoster) results from a reactivation of the virus that also causes chickenpox. With shingles, the first thing you may notice is a tingling sensation or pain on one side of your body or face. Painful skin blisters then erupt on only one side of your face or body along the distribution of nerves on the skin. Typically, this occurs along your chest, abdomen, back, or face, but it may also affect your neck, limbs, or lower back. The area can be very painful, itchy, and tender. The blisters are contagious with skin to skin contact, After one to two weeks, the blisters heal and form scabs, although the pain may continue.

The deep pain that follows after the infection has run its course is known as post herpetic neuralgia. It can continue for months or even years, especially in older people. The incidence of shingles and of post herpetic neuralgia rises with increasing age. More than 50% of cases occur in people over 60. Shingles usually occurs only once, although it has been known to recur in some people. Read more and learn about a vaccine for shingles.

Slideshow: Shingles Pictures Slideshow: Photos of Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Article: Shingles Vaccine Article: Shingles: Are You Risking Nerve Pain? Article: Understanding Shingles - the Basics

Read more on: skin problems and treatments, shingles