Shingles, commonly known as “chickenpox,” is a disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Patients experience painful, band-like red rashes with blisters. Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles, and if the virus affects the eyes or ears, it could lead to blindness or hearing loss. After chickenpox heals, the virus remains dormant in the body’s nerves and can reactivate later, causing shingles. It is estimated that about one-third of people will experience shingles in their lifetime, commonly affecting those over 50 years old and children.

Shingles Risk

95% of adults are at risk for shingles, with the risk significantly increasing after age 50. One in three individuals will experience shingles in their lifetime, which can be very painful. The shingles vaccine can reduce the risk of developing the disease by 50-80% in those aged 50-80, and it also helps lessen the severity of post-herpetic neuralgia.

Shingles comes with symptoms such as electric shock-like pain, burning sensations, and prickling pain. It follows the nerve pathways and may lead to complications like chronic nerve pain, vision impairment, and facial paralysis. Even after recovery, there is a chance of recurrence.