Shingles! Don’t Let This ‘Snake’ Ruin Your Year!

WORDS DR CH’NG CHIN CHWEN

FEATURED EXPERT DR CH’NG CHIN CHWEN Consultant Dermatologist Subang Jaya Medical Centre

DON’T LET 2025 BE THE YEAR OF THIS SNAKE!

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a common condition that causes a painful rash that can resemble a snake under the skin

• Hence, the term “growing snakes” is a phrase often used by people to describe shingles.
• In Chinese, it’s called “sheng se” (growing snakes), while in Malay, it is known as “kayap ular”.
• Some superstitions around the condition even claim that if the “snake head” meets the “snake tail” as the rash spreads, it could lead to death. No, this is not true!

Shingles symptoms can be divided into early and later stages. Initially, it may be hard to recognize, but as it progresses, the symptoms become much more obvious.

Early Symptoms

• Before the rash appears, the affected area may feel painful or tingly.
• Some people experience a burning sensation, or discomfort similar to being pricked by needles.
• This early stage may also include mild systemic symptoms such as a slight fever or fatigue.

The ‘Snake’ Appears on the Skin

• A few days later, the skin becomes red and small blisters form, grouped together like a “snake” coiling along the skin.
• These blisters typically follow the path of a nerve on one side of the body, such as the chest, waist, back, or face. The good news is that the “snake” stays on one side of the body and does not cross the midline.

Postherpetic Neuralgia

• Some people may experience lingering pain even after the rash has healed.
• This condition, known as postherpetic neuralgia, can last for weeks, months, or even longer.
• It is more common in older adults.

SHINGLES IS CAUSED BY THE SAME VIRUS RESPONSIBLE FOR CHICKENPOX

• Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox.
• After you have had chickenpox as a child, the virus doesn’t leave.
• Instead, it quietly remains in your body, hiding in nerve ganglia and waiting for the right moment to reactivate or ‘wake up’.

SO, WHAT TRIGGERS THE VIRUS TO REACTIVATE AND CAUSE SHINGLES?

The answer is simple: when your immune system weakens due to fatigue, illness, or ageing.

Shingles is often linked to the state of the immune system, and several factors can trigger its reactivation:

• Weakened immunity. This is the most common cause. Whether due to lack of sleep, high stress, or illness, once the immune system weakens, the virus can find its way to “fight back”.
• Ageing. The risk of developing shingles increases significantly after the age of 50, as the immune system naturally weakens with age.
• Chronic conditions. Conditions like diabetes, cancer, or long-term inflammation can make the immune system weaker and more susceptible to shingles.
• Medications. Long-term use of immune-suppressing medications such as those used for rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or during chemotherapy, can increase the risk of shingles.
• Psychological stress. Many people overlook this, but prolonged stress can also be a trigger for the virus to reactivate.

IS SHINGLES DANGEROUS?

Usually, No

• In most cases, shingles is troublesome but not life-threatening, and most people recover with timely treatment.

However, Some Situations May Require Special Medical Attention

• If the rash appears near the eyes or nose, it is important to see a doctor immediately, as it could affect the eyes and even lead to blindness.
• For individuals with significantly weakened immune systems, such as those living with cancer or taking immune-suppressing medications, the condition may be more severe and requires careful monitoring and treatment.

SO, WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU GET SHINGLES?

If you notice a “snake” on your skin, it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible.

Your doctor may prescribe:

Antiviral Medications

• These medications can inhibit the virus from multiplying and shorten the duration of the illness.
• The earlier you start treatment, ideally within 72 hours of the first symptoms, the more effective the results.

Pain Relievers

• Regular painkillers or medications can be prescribed specifically for nerve pain management.

The key to effective treatment is early intervention. The sooner you start treatment, the lower the risk of complications and long-term pain.

CAN YOU PREVENT SHINGLES FROM HAPPENING TO YOU?

Consider Getting the Shingles Vaccine

• Recommended for people aged 50 and older, especially those with chronic health conditions, high stress levels, or weakened immune systems.
• The vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and can also decrease the likelihood of postherpetic neuralgia.

Boost Your Immunity

• Eat a balanced diet
• Exercise regularly
• Get adequate sleep
• Manage your stress