Shingles is caused by the same virus that leads to chickenpox. In those adults who had chickenpox as children, shingles is sometimes caused by the chicken pox virus that remained dormant in nerve cells.

In many people these viral cells can reawaken as they age, and can lead to another outbreak of this virus. The condition is then known as shingles and is far more painful than chickenpox.

Shingles can extend from the middle of the back around one side of the body to the breastbone, affecting the whole nerve line, others nerve lines, and can even affect the eyes. The rash is red and itchy, forming into fluid-filled blisters that break open, crust over and dry, but the nerve pain can be unbearable.

Who Is at Risk?

Basically, anyone who has ever had chickenpox can have this virus reawakened. Mostly, people over fifty are those mainly afflicted by shingles. Individuals who are immune-compromised by illness, disease or radiation for cancer can also develop shingles. It can also cause serious problems in those who have never had chickenpox before.

It is important to note that someone with shingles cannot pass it to another person. The problem lies with people who have never had chickenpox. Whether young or old, if these people come into contact with someone with shingles, they can develop chickenpox, but not shingles.

Symptoms of Shingles

The red rash looks like a band that stretches around half of your body. A few days before the rash shows up, you may feel achy or have a headache. The first thought is that you are coming down with a cold or the flu.

When the rash appears, it turns into blisters that will eventually break open. It is not until they crust over and dry that you are no longer contagious. This can take anywhere from two to four weeks to resolve.

The main difference between shingles and chickenpox is the nerve pain.

Treatment of Shingles

Because shingles is caused by a virus from the herpes zoster family, it is treated with antivirals. They can help the condition run its course faster or make the symptoms less intense. Also, over-the-counter medications are given for pain, and antidepressants are sometimes needed.

To avoid undue suffering, be sure to consult your doctor immediately as soon as you believe that you have contracted the disease.