Shingles Side Effects

Shingles is a common skin condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Shingles is caused by the reactivation of dormant varicella-zoster virus. People infected with shingles may experience a variety of symptoms, including pain, rash, and blistering of the skin.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects of shingles include:

Pain – Some people experience pain and aching in the area of the rash, even before the rash appears.

Itching – In some cases, people with shingles experience itching or a burning sensation in the affected area.

Rash – A shingles rash usually presents as a red, raised, and itchy rash, often in a band or strip pattern.

Blisters – The rash is typically followed by a group of small, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters eventually break and become crusty.

Fever – A low-grade fever, chills, and fatigue may also accompany shingles.

Less Common Side Effects

In addition to the more common side effects of shingles, some people may experience more rare side effects, such as:

Headaches – People with shingles may experience headaches, which can range from mild to severe.

Hearing loss – In rare cases, shingles may cause hearing loss in one or both ears.

Numbness – Some people may experience numbness in the affected area.

Facial paralysis – In some cases, shingles can cause facial paralysis, which is a loss of facial sensation or muscle control.

Vision problems – Rarely, shingles may cause vision problems, such as blurred vision and eye pain.

It is important to note that the symptoms of shingles can vary from person to person. If you think you may have shingles, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.