Shingles

 Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful and sometimes debilitating infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chicken pox. Shingles can affect anyone who has had chicken pox, but it is more common and severe in older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Some of the latest research on the lasting effects of shingles are:

• Shingles can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular complications by infecting and damaging the blood vessels12. This risk can persist for years after the infection and may be reduced by antiviral treatment and vaccination2.
• Shingles can cause chronic pain, known as postherpetic neuralgia, which can last for months or years after the rash heals. This pain can interfere with daily activities, sleep, and quality of life13. There are various treatments available for postherpetic neuralgia, such as medications, nerve blocks, and electrical stimulation3.
• Shingles can affect the nerves that control facial movement, hearing, balance, and vision, leading to conditions such as Ramsay Hunt syndrome, facial paralysis, hearing loss, vertigo, and eye inflammation1. These complications can be permanent or reversible, depending on the severity and duration of the infection1.
• Shingles can also increase the risk of other infections, such as bacterial skin infections, meningitis, and encephalitis, by weakening the immune system and creating openings in the skin1. These infections can be life-threatening and require prompt medical attention1.

Shingles can have serious and long-term consequences for health and well-being. However, there are ways to prevent and treat shingles and its complications. The most effective way to prevent shingles is to get vaccinated, especially for people who are 50 years or older or have a compromised immune system123. The vaccine can reduce the risk of shingles by 50 to 70 percent and the risk of postherpetic neuralgia by 60 to 90 percent3. The vaccine can also reduce the severity and duration of shingles if it does occur3.

If shingles does occur, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, preferably within 72 hours of the onset of symptoms13. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of complications and speed up recovery13. Antiviral medications can shorten the duration of the rash, lower the intensity of pain, and prevent the virus from spreading to other parts of the body13. Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and topical creams can also help ease the discomfort and inflammation caused by shingles13.

Shingles is a common and potentially serious condition that can have lasting effects on health and quality of life. However, by getting vaccinated, seeking early treatment, and following medical advice, people can reduce the risk and impact of shingles and its complications.

Shingles is a condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles can cause a painful rash, blisters, and nerve damage in the affected area. Some people may also experience fatigue, weakness, and lightheadedness during and after the infection. This could be due to the following reasons:

• Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). This is a complication of shingles that causes chronic pain in the area where the rash was. The pain can interfere with sleep quality and lead to insomnia, which can cause daytime fatigue and brain fog1.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). This is a condition that causes extreme and persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest. The exact causes of CFS are unknown, but some studies suggest that viral infections, such as shingles, may trigger or worsen it23.
• Shingles encephalitis. This is a rare but serious complication of shingles that involves inflammation of the brain. It can cause symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, fever, confusion, speech problems, and hallucinations. Shingles encephalitis requires immediate medical attention and treatment24.

If you have shingles and experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. They can diagnose the cause of your fatigue and brain fog and prescribe appropriate medications or therapies to help you recover. You can also take some steps to manage your fatigue, such as:

• Getting enough rest and sleep
• Eating a balanced and nutritious diet
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine
• Reducing stress and practicing relaxation techniques
• Exercising moderately and regularly
• Seeking support from family, friends, or professionals