Shingles

In BC we have to pay $300 for a vaccine against Shingles. In other jurisdictions in Canada, seniors get the vaccine for free yet the government brags about how it supports seniors. 

My wife suffered from Shingles and I have had friends who have had it as well. It can be a very serious disease. Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Symptoms of shingles typically include:

• Pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in a specific area on one side of the face or body
• A red rash that begins a few days later and develops into fluid-filled blisters
• Itching, and in severe cases, severe pain
• Fatigue, headache, and fever

In some rare cases, severe pain can persist after the rash clears up (Postherpetic Neuralgia)

The symptoms of shingles usually last between 2 and 4 weeks, but sometimes, the pain can persist for months or even years.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have Shingles because early treatment can help to shorten the duration of the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Besides the symptoms I previously mentioned, some people with shingles may also experience:

• Sensitivity to light
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Nausea
• Digestive problems
• Loss of facial muscle control
• Eye problems like conjunctivitis, keratitis, or uveitis

It’s also worth noting that, while shingles most commonly affect the skin on the trunk, upper arms, and legs, sometimes it can also affect other areas of the body, such as the eyes, ears, or mouth. In such cases, additional symptoms may occur, like vision loss, hearing loss or difficulty speaking.

It’s important to see a doctor if you suspect you have shingles because it is a viral infection which can be contagious and can spread to people who haven’t had chickenpox before. And also doctors can suggest medication to ease pain and discomfort, as well as antiviral medications to help to shorten the duration of the infection and reduce the risk of complications.