Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus in people who have had chickenpox in the past. It occurs mainly in the elderly in their 50s or older, whose immunity is reduced, but recently, it is also common in young people who suffer from stress accumulation and lack of exercise. In addition, it is likely to occur in patients who have suffered a long time, such as chemotherapy, and who are receiving immunosuppressant treatment.
If shingles is not treated within 72 hours after the onset of symptoms, the likelihood of complications increases. However, it is difficult to confirm until the blisters come up, so it is easy to miss the initial treatment period. If the pain persists after a month, it is likely to develop into’postherpetic neuralgia’, a typical complication of shingles.
The initial symptoms of shingles include fatigue, muscle pain, headache, nausea, and fever, and are accompanied by pain, burning, numbness, and tingling in one part of the body. Pain mainly occurs in the torso, neck, and face, and you can feel abnormality in the sensitivity to touch.
One to five days after the pain occurs, a red rash and band-like blisters develop, and within 7 to 10 days, they turn into scabs. The symptoms of a shingles rash usually last 2 to 4 weeks.
To prevent shingles, it is necessary to increase immunity and stamina through a balanced diet and constant exercise. It is also important to relieve stress through adequate rest and a good night’s sleep. If you are over 50 years of age at an increased risk of getting shingles, vaccination can help prevent shingles.
The preventive effect of the vaccine is 70% in the 50s, about 64% in the 60s and over, and 38% in the 70s and over, so it is better to get the vaccine as early as possible.
People who have already suffered from shingles can also be vaccinated, but it is best to vaccinate them at least 6 to 12 months after treatment.
Copyright © Mediadale Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited