Shingles

Questions and Answers

1. FAQ: What Is Shingles?

   - Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful skin rash caused by the same virus as chicken pox and usually linked to a weakened or aging immune system.
   1 Expert Answer, 1 Community Answer

2. FAQ: How Do You Know if Someone Has Shingles?

   - Signs of shingles include pain on one side of the body, then a rash, then fluid-filled blisters. Why to call your doctor at the first signs of rash.
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3. FAQ: How Is Shingles Treated?

   - Treatment for shingles should begin as soon as possible. Medications for shingles include antivirals, pain relievers, and steroids.
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4. FAQ: What if Pain Persists Even After a Shingles Rash Clears Up?

   - Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is lasting pain after a shingles rash clears. PHN is common among adults and may call for prescription pain medication.
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5. FAQ: What can I do at home to ease pain of shingles?

   - To ease the pain of shingles, prescription pain medications may be needed. Cool compresses, baths, and reduced scratching of blisters may also help.
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6. Does Medicare pay for shingles vaccine?

   - Will Medicare pay for the shingles vaccine? Unfortunately, Medicare will not pay for the shingles vaccine or certain other preventive measures.
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7. FAQ: Do I need shingles vaccine if I had chicken pox?

   - Most adults over 60 should get the shingles vaccine to prevent shingles or lessen its effects. Learn who should not receive the shingles vaccine.
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Topics, Blog Posts, Articles, Checklists, and To-Do Lists

1. 10 Things Your Skin Says About Your Health

   Article - Your skin is your body's largest organ, and it can give you many clues about your health. Ten warning signs from the skin to look out for.

2. Shingles Vaccine Strongly Recommended for Seniors

   Blog Post - A shingles vaccine is recommended for all seniors by the Centers For Disease Control, along with other adult vaccinations.

3. Health Alert: 7 Vaccines Few Adults Have Had -- But Need

   Blog Post - Vaccines for adults? Yes! That's the resounding pronouncement of U.S. health officials, who last week announced results of a new CDC survey that showed that older Americans are worrisomely ignorant about the vaccines available for adults and the diseases they protect us from...