Shingles -- Are you at Risk?

Introduction

Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). This is the same virus that causes chickenpox that unpleasant disease many of us had as children. Usually the virus does not cause any further problems; however for about 25 percent of all healthy adults this virus can reappear years later (usually after age 40) causing the painful, tingling skin rash known as shingles.

Should You be Concerned?

• Did you have chickenpox as a child? This increases your risk.
• Have you had any condition that weakens your immune system? Such causes include cancer treatment, certain medications, or other conditions can place you at higher risk of developing this condition.
• Are you over 50 years of age? This increases your risk even more.  Shingles is 10 times more likely to occur in adults over 60 than in children under 10.

 Does Having Lymphedema Increase Your Risk?

  It is difficult to tell if lymphedema increases your risk, but remember healthy adults who do not have the risk factors you have, also develop this condition. Better safe than sorry. Explore the risks and be informed.

• Learn the symptoms of this condition so you can be prepared to act quickly in case you suspect you are developing this condition. 
• An excellent source of information is to go on line to MedlinePlus at www.medlineplus.gov. Then type shingles in the search box.
• Another excellent information source is the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS):www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/shingles/

 What Should you Do as a Preventive?

The vaccine "Zostavax" is available to prevent shingles. Ask your physician if you should be vaccinated against this disease.

What Should You Do if Symptoms Develop?

• Seek treatment immediately!
• Antiviral drugs are used to treat this condition; however prompt treatment is essential!
• If this medication is taken soon after the first symptoms appear, the pain should ease and the development of the itching rash should slow.

Reference

NIH MedlinePlus, Winter 2010.

© LymphNotes 2010. This information does not replace the advice of a qualified health care professional.

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Category: Lymphedema and Other Conditions Updated: 2010-04-12