Tag

Shingles

All articles tagged with #shingles

health2 months ago

Shingles Vaccine May Lower Dementia Risk and Prevent Pain

A large study suggests that shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, increases dementia risk, but vaccination with shingles vaccines like Shingrix can significantly reduce this risk, especially with multiple doses. The findings highlight the potential of vaccines not only to prevent shingles but also to protect brain health, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in older adults.

health6 months ago

Shingles Causes Bladder Hole in Patient

A rare case in China where shingles led to a bladder rupture in a 77-year-old man, highlighting the potential for shingles to cause severe urinary complications, especially in patients with underlying conditions like diabetes. The patient was successfully treated with surgery and antiviral medication, marking the first known instance of shingles causing bladder rupture.

health1 year ago

Should Seniors Without Chickenpox History Get Shingles Vaccine?

For individuals over 63 who have never had chickenpox, getting vaccinated is crucial due to the severe complications chickenpox can cause at an older age. The recommended approach is to first receive the chickenpox vaccine followed by the shingles vaccine, providing protection against both diseases. While the shingles vaccine alone is not approved for preventing chickenpox, it may offer some protection, though this is untested in healthy adults. The best course is to follow the evidence-based method of receiving both vaccines.

health1 year ago

"Understanding Shingles: Causes, Experiences, and Insights"

Channel 9 reporter Jonathan Lowe shares his painful experience with shingles, a condition caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Despite initially mistaking it for a cold, Lowe's condition worsened, leading to severe nerve pain and Bell's palsy. He emphasizes the importance of discussing the shingles vaccine with a doctor, regardless of age, to prevent others from enduring similar suffering.

health1 year ago

"Post-Shingles Protection: The Importance of the Shingrix Vaccine"

If you've had shingles, it's still important to get the Shingrix vaccine, especially since shingles can recur. For heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, treating underlying conditions is crucial, and new classes of medicines like SGLT2 inhibitors and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists have shown promise in improving symptoms and outcomes. Specific treatments for conditions like amyloidosis may also be necessary.

health1 year ago

"Shingles: A Surprising Risk for Younger Adults"

A woman in her late 40s shares her experience of contracting shingles, a painful condition caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, despite believing she was too young for it. Initially mistaking the symptoms for a nerve issue, she eventually received a diagnosis and started antiviral medication, but continues to suffer from intense pain. She urges people over 50 to get the shingles vaccine and advises those with vulnerable immune systems or high stress levels to consider discussing vaccination options with their healthcare providers.

health1 year ago

"Global Varicella Vaccination Disparities: Understanding the Chickenpox Dilemma"

The decision not to vaccinate children against chickenpox in some countries has been influenced by concerns about potential consequences, including the risk of shingles in older adults. However, recent evidence has shown that the feared increase in shingles cases has not materialized in countries where the vaccine has been implemented. As a result, the UK has recently recommended adding the chickenpox vaccine to its national childhood immunization program, with other countries also considering similar measures. The availability of the vaccine is seen as a potential game-changer in preventing severe complications and deaths associated with chickenpox.

health2 years ago

"Understanding Shingrix: A Guide to Shingles Prevention"

Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can be prevented with the highly effective Shingrix vaccine, recommended for adults over 50 and those with weakened immune systems. The vaccine is free for eligible individuals under Medicare Part D or private insurance. Shingles can cause a painful rash, nerve pain, and serious complications, including vision and balance impairments, facial paralysis, and heart issues. If you suspect shingles, seek medical advice promptly for antiviral treatment and symptom management.

health2 years ago

"Understanding Shingles Complications: Beyond Double Vision"

An 86-year-old man experienced double vision after a shingles outbreak over his eye, leading to concerns about the long-term prognosis for his vision. Shingles can cause various complications, including post-herpetic neuralgia, eye disease, and an increased risk of stroke. The recombinant vaccine, Shingrix, is highly effective at preventing shingles and its complications, and even those who have had shingles or the old vaccine should consider getting the new two-shot vaccine.