What is shingles

Shingles: Is a reactivation of the varicella virus (chicken pox). It is not chicken pox all over again (is never is). The problem with shingles is the pain. The earlier you see the doctor the better (w/in 2 days). You may have a tingling sensation with formation of blister, skin may turn red or purple and pain may develop. This rash is alway is on one side (usually the back, trunk.).

Chicken pox: Shingles is basically a reactivated form of the virus that causes chicken pox (varicella). Also called zoster or herpes zoster. Since we really don't clear the chicken pox virus from our system it can remain dormant and the later on in life reactivate to form the typical shingles clinical pattern.