In cases of shingles, the same virus that causes chickenpox reactivates within the body and this is when the early shingles symptoms will be noticed. When this happens, shingles develops in stages. The first stage of shingles is called the Prodromal stage, and this is the stage where initial symptoms occur. Early symptoms of shingles can include sensitivity to light, headaches or other similar flu-like symptoms (with the absence of a fever). Stress is a known trigger to activate the virus, but each persons body reacts differently. Some patients have reported that they can point to an emotional stress as the time the shingles started.
Prior to the development of a rash and blisters, which form in the Active stage of shingles, the area around the affected nerves begins to cause discomfort, usually in the form of tingling sensations, pain, burning sensations, tickling and occasionally numbness. In addition, the affected person’s lymph nodes may become swollen and tender. These early symptoms can last anywhere from several days to several weeks before initiating the Active stage of shingles, where areas of rash appear on the body. Reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox is possible in any person who has had the virus, even if they experienced a mild case.
Transmission of shingles from exposure has not been proven, however those who have not been exposed to chickenpox may develop this virus if exposed to someone with shingles. In the event that early shingles symptoms are exhibited, it is wise to contact a health care professional to diagnose the illness and develop a treatment plan. In all cases of shingles, the sooner treatment is begun, the better the results. There is no cure for the virus, however treatment options are used to prevent possible serious complications due to shingles and to shorten the length of the illness and control the symptoms. The recent development of the Shingles vaccine has made it possible to never have to deal with pain and rash of the disease.
Get Treatment After The First Shingles Symptoms
The most popular treatments for early shingles symptoms can include either one or a combination of the following; topical antibiotics (to prevent infection of any blisters that appear on the skin), OTC (Over the Counter) pain medications, usually aspirin or ibuprofen (to reduce symptoms of pain caused by shingles), and antiviral medicines (which reduce both the duration and symptoms of pain due to shingles). Typically shingles begins to develop on a person’s chest or back, however it has been known to occur in other areas of the body, including but not limited to the head and face, neck, arms or legs and the abdomen. In some cases of shingles, it is possible to have multiple areas of rash on the body.
Common sense should tell you to see your doctor, but the first signs can be confused with other ailments. Once you are convinced that the rash or pain is caused by shingles symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor or nurse and let them know what is happening so they can get you the prescriptions right after the diagnosis.
