Shingles are a virus that lies dormant (sleeping) in the body, a result of having had chickenpox when a person was younger. This virus can wake up when the body is stressed, diseased, or from age. A weakened immune system can make this virus appear. Some people who have had chickenpox never get shingles, while others do get it. Shingles is not contagious, but can cause some people who have never had chickenpox to get it. You should avoid being in contact with those who have a weakened immune system, pregnant women, or young children who have not had chickenpox if you get the rash.

A viral infection of the nerve roots, shingles will appear as a rash in a band, strip or small area of the body. At first you may feel like you have a flu. There is no fever, but you do have itching, tingling or pain in one spot. The rash will appear in a few days. This rash will then turn into clusters of blisters which fill with fluid and then crust over. The blisters take 2 to 4 weeks to heal. There is no cure, but your doctor can prescribe steroids to help the pain. Antidepressants and creams will also help.

I am not a doctor or medical professional. I just want to make people aware of this disease and explain it in a manner where someone will understand. If you think you have shingles, please seek the help of a doctor.