Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors, Treatments, and Prevention of Internal Shingles

Shingles: More Than Just a Skin Condition

Shingles is a painful infection that can cause rashes and blisters on the skin. However, it can also affect other parts of the body, leading to internal shingles. If left untreated, internal shingles can be life-threatening.

What Are Internal Shingles?

Internal shingles is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus without a rash. It affects parts of the body that are not visible and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Symptoms of Internal Shingles

The symptoms of internal shingles depend on which bodily system and nerves are affected by the virus. General symptoms of shingles may also be present.

Causes and Risk Factors for Internal Shingles

The varicella-zoster virus is responsible for shingles, and poor immunity plays a role in its reactivation. Advancing age, certain illnesses, and not getting vaccinated are risk factors for internal shingles.

Complications Associated with Internal Shingles

Internal shingles can lead to severe complications, including blood vessel problems, myelitis, meningitis, encephalitis, pneumonia, postherpetic neuralgia, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, vision loss, and eye problems.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Internal Shingles

Doctors rely on testing to confirm the presence of the virus in internal shingles. Treatment options include antiviral medications, painkillers, and at-home management.

Prevention of Internal Shingles

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent shingles and their associated complications. Keeping your immunity up by eating well and getting enough sleep may also help reduce your risk of developing infections like shingles.

The Lowdown

If you suspect you have internal shingles, see your doctor right away. They’ll rule out other causes of your symptoms and prescribe the necessary treatments to aid in recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you have shingles without a rash? How long do internal shingles last? What does internal shingles pain feel like? What can be done for internal shingles? What is the outlook for internal shingles? Find out the answers to these frequently asked questions in this section.