(HealthDay News) — Shingles is caused by the herpes zoster virus, the same one that causes chickenpox.
After chickenpox subsides, the virus becomes inactive (dormant), until an unknown factor triggers its reemergence as shingles– a painful, blistering rash.
The ADAM Encyclopedia says you’re more likely to develop shingles if you’re 60 or older, had chickenpox before you were 1 year old, and have a condition that’s caused a weakened immune system.
ADAM says these symptoms are typical of shingles:
- One-sided pain, tingling, or burning.
- Pain in the abdomen.
- Difficulty moving facial muscles.
- Droopy eyelids.
- Fever and chills.
- Lesions near the genitals.
- Headache.
- Hearing loss.
- Joint pain.
- Inability to fully move the eyes.
- Swollen glands.
- Taste and vision problems.