Shingles

Guess what? I have the infamous shingles. Hip Hip Hooray! Not.What are shingles? Shingles (Herpes Zoster) is caused by the same virus that causes the chicken pox. Anyone who has had chicken pox can develop shingles. The virus from chicken pox will 'sleep' (be dormant) in your body/nerves. Shingles will 'be awaken' from a trigger that studies are not so sure of. Some triggers that dermatologists think may 'awaken' shingles are stress, and a low immune system. I got shingles and I'm no where near 50-60 (which is the common age to get shingles). I get to skip school for a couple of days because It is contagious if it is direct skin contact. Yay for no school! Boo for having a big ugly thing on the side of my face >.<

How do Shingles look like?


Shingles form small painful blisters on one area of the skin, usually the side. I have them on the right side of my face..ick! It can form anywhere on your body.

Here is a close up picture of the blisters

I have a huge scab on one side because..well, I didn't know it was shingles, so I itched it :/

There are vaccines for shingles, but it is for people 60 years of age and older.

Treatment for shingles?

I went to the dermatologist today, which they were the Nicest people ever, and the doctor wrote some prescription down.

If you have shingles, I would advise you to see a dermatologist. Not only is it painful, but using some topical medications (such as Neosporin) can worsen it and cause inflammation and infect it even more. I've been instructed and advised on how to treat it, however, my situation is more; if you will, serious than your case may be. Early signs of shingles may include pain in that area, an itching frenzy (rash), or small bumps/blisters in form. I wasted <$100 at the regular doctor's office and all they told me was "You have shingles, don't do anything". A dermatologist specializes in conditions like this, they know much more. ^.^

Get well (If you have shingles!)