The Surprising Dangers of Shingles: What You Need to Know
Shingles is a painful viral infection that can lead to chronic pain, stroke risk, and lifelong nerve damage. Despite the risks, vaccination rates remain low. Get the facts and protect yourself.
Shingles, a viral infection caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, is often dismissed as a minor inconvenience. But the reality is far more serious. Millions of people suffer from the debilitating effects of shingles every year, including chronic pain, increased stroke risk, and lifelong nerve damage. Yet, vaccination rates remain dangerously low, leaving many vulnerable to this potentially devastating condition.
The primary symptom of shingles is a painful rash that typically appears on one side of the body. However, the real danger lies in the long-term complications that can arise. Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a chronic nerve pain condition, affects up to 20% of shingles patients and can persist for months or even years after the initial outbreak. This severe pain can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making even the simplest daily tasks a challenge.
{{IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER}}Source: Wired
