Shingles is a viral infection that can cause a lot of pain. If you have had shingles before, is it possible to get shingles again? In this article, we will explore the answer to that question. We will also talk about preventive measures that can be taken to avoid getting shingles again in the future.
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you have chickenpox, the virus remains in your body. It can reactivate later in life and cause shingles. Shingles usually affects people over the age of 50. However, it can also affect younger people. People with weakened immune systems are also at a higher risk of developing shingles.
What causes Shingles?
As we know, the vast majority of people who get shingles are over the age of 50. This is because, as people age, their immune systems become weaker and are less able to fight off infections. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in their nervous system. In some people, the virus reactivates later in life and causes shingles. It’s not clear why this happens, but it’s thought that anything that weakens the immune system, such as stress or illness, may trigger the virus to reactivate.
Can you get Shingles more than once?
Yes, you can get shingles more than once. The virus, varicella-zoster virus (VZV), that causes shingles can stay in your body for years. It can choose to react at any time and cause shingles again. Hence, there is a possibility that you can get shingles more than once.
What are the indicators that show your Shingles are back?
Some of the indicators that show your Shingles are back are as follows:
- You experience a sudden, severe pain on one side of your body or face.
- The pain is often accompanied by a burning or tingling sensation.
- You develop a rash that consists of clusters of small, painful blisters.
- You may experience fever, headache, and fatigue.
- You have increased sensitivity to light.
- You experience problems with your vision, such as blurred vision or seeing spots or lights.
- You have a hard time swallowing due to pain in your throat.
- Your lymph glands are swollen.
- You have sore joints or muscles.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the virus from causing further damage.
How can you prevent Shingles from coming back?
There is no sure way to prevent shingles from coming back. However, some preventive measures can be taken to lower the risk of getting shingles again.
These include:
- Staying healthy and keeping a strong immune system.
This can be done by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
- Avoiding stress
Stress can weaken the immune system and make it more likely for shingles to come back.
How can I avoid getting Shingles?
- Avoiding contact with people who have shingles
If you come in contact with someone who has shingles, you can get chickenpox, which in turn may develop to become shingles if not taken care of properly.
- Getting the chickenpox vaccine
If you have not had chickenpox before. This can help to prevent shingles from occurring.
- Get the shingles vaccine if you are over 50 years old
This can help to prevent shingles from occurring or lessen the severity of shingles if you do get it.
If you have shingles, it is important to take note of these points:
- Get treatment right away. Early treatment can help shorten the duration of shingles and lower the risk of complications.
- See your doctor if shingles blisters appear in unusual places. For instance, near your eyes. If action is not taken right away, this can lead to serious complications, such as vision loss.
- Call your doctor if shingles pain lasts for more than a month after the rash goes away. You might need prescription medication to help relieve the pain.
Conclusion
Shingles is a viral infection that can cause a heaping amount of discomfort. The virus that causes shingles can stay in your body for years and can reactivate at any time. There is no sure way to prevent shingles from coming back. However, ensuring that you have actively put preventive measures in place for your well-being, it will be helpful to lower the risk of getting shingles again.
