Shingles
Shingles is triggered by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It causes a blistering, burning rash along specific sensory nerve fibres. Approximately 30 percent of people who have had chickenpox will develop shingles at some point in their life.
Symptoms
When someone recovers from chickenpox, the virus that caused it (the VZV) remains dormant in the nerve ganglia. It can then reactivate, resulting in the onset of symptoms in the area serviced by the affected nerves. This is why it typically develops on one part or side of the body (thorax, abdomen, back, lower limbs, neck, face, scalp or eyes). Signs of the disease include:
- Neuralgia (pain, tingling or increased sensitivity) in the area where the rash will develop
- Diffuse redness in the affected location
- Fluid-filled blisters
- Severe or moderate pain (burning or “lightning bolt” sensation)
- Fever
Shingles can also lead to various complications of varying severity, depending on the location of the rash. The most common of them is post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) – pain that lasts months after recovery.
Most people will experience only one episode of shingles in their lifetime.
It’s also important to know that someone who is not immunized and has never had chickenpox can catch it through direct contact with the shingles rash.
Risk factors
Risk factors for shingles include age (being over 50) and a weakened or suppressed immune system due to various factors, such as stress, cancer, diabetes and the use of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs.
Prevention
The most effective preventive measure not to develop shingles is to get vaccinated against it. The vaccine is available for people aged 50+.
Since one of the risk factors for shingles is a deficient immune system, it is recommended that you strengthen your immunity through a healthy lifestyle – balanced diet, exercise and sufficient rest.
Good to know!
Many Uniprix-affiliated pharmacies offer a vaccination service, which includes flu shots, travel vaccines and the shingles vaccine. Ask your family pharmacist wether they can administer zona vaccines at your pharmacy.
Treatment
Antiviral drugs are the main course of treatment for shingles. They fight viruses, help minimize pain and accelerate healing. They are also believed to reduce the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia. Treatment with antiviral drugs must begin within three days of the onset of the rash. Talk to your pharmacist to see if they can prescribe you a treatment against shingles.
Pharmacy services
To learn more about shingles, the shingles vaccine and shingles treatments, speak with your family pharmacists. They’ll be more than happy to answer your questions!
The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Uniprix. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply.
* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.