Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Learning Center

Shingles is a herpes virus infection, like chickenpox, but it generally strikes people over age 50. In fact, it is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox and only people who have had a previous chickenpox infection can get shingles. Check out the Shingles Learning Center Images for our multimedia gallery to see what this painful rash looks like.

Severe pain is the hallmark symptom of shingles, as the virus spreads along nerve tracts from the spinal cord when reactivated later in life after the initial chicken pox infection. That is why the rash is usually seen to follow a pattern of being on one side and localized to one part of the body. The pain can be very debilitating and linger long after the rash is gone. One of the most significant complications is post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), or severe nerve pain that persists after the rash has healed.

Drugs are the mainstay of treatments for shingles. Early intervention can reduce the risk of complications, decrease pain and the severity of the rash. Being over 65 is the most important risk factor of shingles for those with a history of a chicken pox infection. Prevention of shingles with routine vaccination is recommended for all persons over age 65. The Zoster vaccine cannot be used to treat acute outbreaks of shingles or to prevent PHN. The Shingles Learning Center's Doctor Specialties section can direct you to medical specialists who are experts in treating shingles and PHN. Your primary care provider can vaccinate you if you are over age 60.