This article addresses what causes shingles to activate.
Some people develop pain, itchiness, or tingling in these areas prior to the rash developing.
These abrasions can cause:
In very rare cases, VSV reactivation has been associated withencephalitisinflammation of the brain.
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Shingles Treatment
Early shingles may be treated with creams and lotions to relieve pain and itching.
Using a cool compress may also provide symptomatic relief.
What Triggers a Shingles Outbreak?
Getting vaccinated is particularly important for those who are immunocompromised or over 50.
Two doses of the Shingrix vaccine have been shown to be 90% effective.
Shingles is rarely life-threatening, but its symptoms can greatly affect your quality of life.
Large amounts of stress can lower immune function, lowering its ability to defend against viruses like VZV.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Shingles (herpes zoster) clinical overview.
National Institute of Aging.Shingles.
2021;73(6):941-948. doi:10.1093/cid/ciab125
