Complications of Shingles

For most, although a case of shingles is extremely uncomfortable, it is a relatively predictable process. It begins with a painful sensation along one side of the body. This sensation has been described by others as burning, irritating or even throbbing. After a few days of consistent pain, a rash appears on the surface of the skin in the same area as the pain.

The rash is made up of red bumps and blisters. After a few more days, the blisters reach their full size and begin to weep. Once the blisters have complete emptied their pus, they dry up and turn into scabs. Within a few weeks, the scabs fall off and the pain of shingles finally disappears. Although this is the most common scenario for a case of shingles, there are cases that take a turn for the worse.

The most serious complication of shingles occurs when it spreads to face. If shingles reaches the face, there is the possibility that it can actually lead to blindness or other very serious issues. Therefore, it is extremely important that every case of shingles be treated as soon as possible in order to decrease the chances of this taking place.

A lesser, but still unpleasant, complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia. Postherpetic neuralgia, or PHN, is a condition where the pain of shingles continues even after all the physical signs have disappeared. PHN is normally treated with antidepressants, painkillers or several other treatment options. Although it is very painful, PHN is not considered a serious complication of shingles.

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