Shingles

Shingles is a painful skin condition caused by reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox. It can lead to a blistering rash, nerve pain, and long-term discomfort if not treated promptly. At ALLUSTRA DERMATOLOGY, located in the Heights and Memorial City in Houston, Texas, Brundha Balaraman, MD, provides timely diagnosis and personalized treatment to help reduce symptoms and lower the risk of complications. If you suspect shingles, early medical care is essential. Schedule an appointment by phone or online

What are shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash.

It occurs when the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox — becomes reactivated later in life. After you recover from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve tissue. Years later, it can reactivate and travel along nerve pathways to the skin.

Shingles typically affects one side of the body and appears in a band-like pattern.

What are the symptoms of shingles?

Shingles often develops in stages.

Early symptoms may include:

• Tingling, burning, or shooting pain in a specific area
• Sensitivity to touch
• Fatigue
• Mild fever

Within a few days, a red rash appears, followed by fluid-filled blisters. The blisters eventually crust over and heal within 2–4 weeks.

Pain can range from mild to severe and may persist even after the rash clears.

Who is at risk for shingles?

Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles. However, the risk increases with:

• Age (especially over 50)
• Weakened immune system
• Stress
• Certain medical conditions
• Immunosuppressive medications

Shingles is not caused by exposure to someone with shingles, but the virus can spread to individuals who have never had chickenpox or the vaccine.

How is shingles treated?

Prompt treatment is essential and works best when started within 72 hours of rash onset. Treatment options may include:

• Antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of the infection
• Pain management medications
• Topical treatments to soothe skin discomfort
• Anti-inflammatory medications, if needed

Your provider evaluates your symptoms and medical history to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Can shingles be prevented?

Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk of shingles.The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults over age 50 and for certain individuals with increased risk. Even if you’ve had shingles before, vaccination may help reduce the chance of recurrence.Maintaining overall immune health and seeking early care if symptoms develop are also important.

When should I seek medical care?

You should seek evaluation right away if you:

• Notice a painful rash on one side of your body
• Experience burning or tingling followed by blisters
• Have shingles symptoms near your eyes
• Have a weakened immune system

Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce complications.If you think you may have shingles or are experiencing persistent nerve pain after a rash, contact ALLUSTRA DERMATOLOGY by phone or schedule an evaluation online. Prompt care can help relieve symptoms and support healing.