Shingles -- Are you at Risk?

INTRODUCTION

Shingles can be a painful complication of lymphedema.

Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). This is the same virus that caused chickenpox, that unpleasant disease so many of us had as children. Usually the virus does not cause any further problems; however the risk of developing shingles increased with age. This infection appears as the painful, tingling, burning skin rash known as shingles.

SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED?

• Did you have chickenpox as a child? This increases your risk.
• Have you had any condition that weakens your immune system? Such causes include cancer treatment, certain medications, or other conditions can place you at higher risk of developing this condition.
• Are you over 50 years of age? Increasing age increases your risk of develping shingles. 
• Shingles is 10 times more likely to occur in adults over the age of 60.

DOES HAVING LYMPHEDEMA INCREASE YOUR RISK OF DEVELOPING SHINGLES?

It is difficult to tell if lymphedema increases your risk; however, remember that healthy adults who do not have the risk factors that you have, also develop this condition. Better safe than sorry. Explore the risks and be informed.

• Learn the symptoms of this condition so you can be prepared to act quickly in case you suspect you are developing this condition. 

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO TO PREVENT SHINGLES

The vaccine "Zostavax" is available to prevent shingles. Ask your physician if you should be vaccinated against this disease. This vaccine is not for everyone and you should investigate the "pros and cons" before agreeing to being vacinated.

IF SYMPTOMS DEVELOP -- SEEK TREATMENT IMMEDIATELY!

• Antiviral drugs are used to treat this condition; however prompt treatment is essential!
• If this medication is taken soon after the first symptoms appear, the pain should ease and the development of the itching rash should slow.

© LymphNotes 2015. This information does not replace the advice of a qualified health care professional.

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Category: Lymphedema and Other Conditions Updated: 2015-10-22