Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus-the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate years later as shingles
. Shingles typically presents as a painful rash that usually appears as a single stripe of blisters wrapping around one side of the torso or face. The rash is often preceded by pain, burning, tingling, or sensitivity in the affected area. Other symptoms can include fever, headache, sensitivity to light, and fatigue
. The rash develops into fluid-filled blisters that eventually crust over and heal within 2 to 4 weeks. Shingles most commonly affects people over 50 years old or those with weakened immune systems. About one in three people will develop shingles at some point in their lives
. While shingles is not life-threatening, it can cause significant pain. The most common complication is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a condition where nerve pain persists long after the rash has healed. Shingles can also cause serious complications if it affects the eye or in people with weakened immunity
. Vaccines are available to reduce the risk of shingles, and antiviral medications can help shorten the infection and reduce complications if started early
. In summary, shingles is a painful viral rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus, characterized by a localized blistering rash and nerve pain, primarily affecting older adults or those with weakened immune systems
