Lifestyle-Health | Shingles: A painful wake-up call
PHOTO: ENVATO
ANN/THE STAR – As we grow older, life often presents us with health challenges that seem to creep up out of nowhere.
Among these, shingles—more formally known as herpes zoster—is a condition that many have heard of but few truly understand.
It’s not the loudest or flashiest of illnesses; instead, it lies in wait, quietly biding its time before making its mark in the most discomforting of ways. It’s a complex and often painful condition that can leave a lasting impact on one’s quality of life.
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Shingles is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox.
After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate years later, due to the weakening of the immune system as they age.
Characterised by a painful, blistering rash, shingles typically appear on one side of the body, across the chest or face.
The discomfort can be severe, often described as a burning, stabbing or shock-like pain.
For some, the pain persists long after the rash has healed, a complication known as post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), which affects up to 30 per cent of those who develop shingles.
Shingles is most common among older adults, with over 90 per cent of those over the age of 50 carrying the virus. Approximately 1 in 3 people develop shingles in their lifetime.
As individuals age, the immune system naturally weakens, increasing the risk of reactivation.
Other risk factors include having a weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV or cancer, taking immunosuppressive medications, and having had shingles before.
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The impact of shingles can be profound, particularly for older adults. The rash and accompanying pain can interfere with daily activities, making it difficult to dress, walk, or sleep.
In severe cases, shingles can lead to complications such as vision problems if the rash appears near the eyes, or even neurological issues like encephalitis. Furthermore, PHN can cause prolonged suffering with nerve pain lasting for months or even years.
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Defending against a viral attack
While shingles may often go unnoticed, it is preventable, and taking steps to reduce the risk is important. Raising awareness about the disease can help people protect themselves and minimise its impact.
If you experience symptoms such as a painful rash or burning sensations, seeking medical advice early is important. Timely treatment can reduce both the severity and duration of the infection.
The first step in protecting your health is talking to your healthcare provider about your personal risk and prevention options. Acting now can help safeguard your health for the future, especially for those aged 50 and older, who should consider discussing prevention strategies with their doctors.
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