Shingles FAQs

Get the fact about shingles.

Have you had chickenpox? Chances are good that you did when you were a child. If so, did you also know that you are at risk for shingles? That’s because the chickenpox virus (varicella zoster) may lie dormant in your body for decades before being reactivated. Learn more about shingles and what our dermatologist in Okmulgee, OK and serving McAlester, Dr. Martha Robinson can do to help.

What are the signs and symptoms of shingles?

Shingles cause a very painful and often-severe rash that is formed by a cluster of fluid-filled bumps or blisters. The rash often appears on one side of the torso, but can also develop on the forehead or around the eye. A shingles rash around the eye can lead to vision loss, so it’s important that you turn to our McAlester, OK, board-certified dermatologist as soon as possible if you develop a rash on your face. Before the rash appears you may notice an itching, tingling or burning sensation in the area days prior.

Along with nerve pain and a rash, shingles can also cause,

  • Headaches
  • Stomach issues
  • Chills
  • Fever

What causes shingles to appear?

Yes, shingles is caused by the chickenpox virus, but what causes the dormant virus to become reactivated? Long-term or severe stress or trauma can increase your risk for shingles. Those with weakened immune systems are also at risk. If you are taking steroid medications or undergoing cancer treatment this may also trigger a shingles outbreak.  

How long does shingles last?

The blisters begin to scab around 7-10 days and it can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks for the blisters to heal completely. If you have a weakened immune system it may take longer to heal.

Is there a way to prevent shingles?

The good news is that there is a vaccine that can protect you against the shingles virus and can be given to adults 50 years and older. The vaccine is administered in two doses administered about 2-6 months apart and it can protect individuals for up to 5 years. It’s highly recommended that all older adults get the shingles vaccine.

How is shingles treated?

Certain antiviral medications may be used to shorten the severity and length of your illness, but it’s important that you seek immediate treatment from our McAlester, OK, dermatologist if you suspect that you might have shingles. These medications are most effective when taken as soon as symptoms appear.

Oatmeal baths, cold compresses, over-the-counter pain medications and calamine lotion can also be used to manage symptoms until the body clears the infection.

If you develop a new, severe or worsening rash it’s always a good idea to have it properly evaluated by a qualified dermatologist. Your dermatologist in Okmulgee, OK and serving McAlester, Dr. Robinson can diagnose shingles just by looking at the rash. To schedule an appointment, call us at (918) 758-3750.

Contact Us

 

Please contact our office to make an appointment by calling (918) 758-3750

Our Location

114 North Grand Ave, Ste 508 Okmulgee, OK 74447

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed