Where can one get shingles? This is a question asked by many people, especially those who are newly diagnosed with shingles. Shingles is a non-viral illness caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). It is a painful and itchy infection that mostly appears on the face and hands. It can also affect the genitals, throat and eyes.
A person may get shingles in one of three ways. First, they can experience symptoms such as extreme pain, burning sensation and redness. Second, complications such as complications in other parts of the body resulting to skin breakdown. Thirdly, the virus can enter the body through wounds or cuts. Where can one get shingles? Let’s take a look at the different risk factors associated with shingles.
Risk Factors: There are several risks associated with contracting VZV. One such risk factor is complications in other parts of the body caused by the virus. Complications include:
Who gets infected with shingles? A case of shingles is usually associated with elderly individuals. Also, this condition rarely occurs in infants or healthy children. Cases have also been reported from members of other groups such as college students and members of the military. However, the risk increases among adults.
How does one get shingles? Shingles is usually caused by a viral infection. This means that the virus invades and attacks the skin. Once established, the virus remains in the nerve cells where it causes permanent damage. The virus can also invade the areas on the outside of the body such as finger joints and muscles. Unfortunately, it is also possible for shingles to be spread to others by touching objects contaminated with the virus.
What are the symptoms associated with shingles? The symptoms experienced by patients that have been diagnosed with shingles can range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms are pain and redness in the area of the shingles rash. Patients may also experience burning sensations and tingling. More severe cases may include a fever, nausea, and vomiting.
Can one develop shingles after developing a cold? The answer to the question “where can one get shingles?” is actually “no”. Shingles does not occur in people that have a cold or flu. A patient must be sick enough to get the virus in order to develop this type of blisters, and then the virus has to find its way into the body through the broken skin. Therefore, people who are extremely sick or have other immune system issues are the only ones that are at risk for developing shingles.
How are shingles spread? Shingles can be contagious between people. However, since the symptoms will appear weeks or even months after the initial infection, it is virtually impossible to develop it on your own. If you do come down with shingles, you should keep in mind that your symptoms will likely vary from person to person, so it is important to have your doctor examine you to confirm that you are indeed getting the disease. It is also a good idea to inform any others who may be in the same household of your symptoms so that they can be treated properly.
Can you develop shingles after being in an earthquake? While most people would assume that the answer would be yes, this is simply not true. While it is possible that shingles can be transferred from one person to another following an earthquake, it is also not a common occurrence. It is much more likely that the virus would be picked up by the dust from the area, which would cause the development.
What are the symptoms of shingles? As far as the actual symptoms go, there are very few. The main symptom is a rash, which will generally begin on one arm or the other but will eventually spread to the rest of the body. Some individuals will also experience itching or a burning sensation on the infected area.
Where can one get shingles? The virus is easily passed from one person to another during sexual activity. It is also contagious between people who have recently been to the same place. If you’ve recently traveled to an area where Shingles is present, you are at risk for developing this condition. Make sure you have your own precautions taken in case you do become infected.
Are there any shingles cure? While there is no known cure, there are a few treatments that you can use to alleviate the symptoms of shingles. Zovirax is a prescription medication that many sufferers take. There are also numerous over the counter medications that offer temporary relief. No matter which treatment option you choose, keep in mind that prevention is always key and it is advised that you practice good hygiene to avoid this condition in the first place.