Shingles can manifest as a painful skin rash that blisters and it is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. Anyone who has had chickenpox at any point in their life is at risk of developing shingles when they become older adults, as it's when the condition is most common. More questions regarding shingles will be covered below, but to learn more about the condition and ways to treat and prevent it, reach out directly to Dr. David Horvath, Dr. Brian Horvath, and Dr. Gretchen Kreizenbeck of Horvath Dermatology Associates in Pittsburgh, PA.

What Are the Possible Complications?

The most common complication from shingles is a condition called postherpetic neuralgia, which is nerve pain that lingers even after the blisters brought on by shingles have healed.

Are Shingles Contagious?

Just like chickenpox, shingles are also contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact. It is most contagious when blisters are still present on the skin before they have healed.

Is There a Way to Prevent Them?

There is a vaccine that most dermatologists recommend for people who are age 50 or older, this includes everyone, it is still recommended even if you don't remember having been exposed to chickenpox when you were young. Even if you already had shingles your doctor could still recommend that you get it as soon as the rash from the previous exposure has healed.

What Is the Treatment for Shingles?

Your dermatologist can prescribe different types of medication that can speed the healing process and make the symptoms less severe. But it's important to treat them as soon as possible for the best results, so as soon as you suspect you may have them you should contact your dermatologist for care.

You may also be prescribed analgesics to reduce the pain caused by the condition, and the medication can often be used in tandem with at-home remedies to further ease the symptoms.

Treatment for Shingles in Pittsburgh, PA 

If you have shingles or suspect that you may have them, then schedule a visit as soon as you can with Horvath Dermatology Associates, with Dr. Horvath, Dr. Horvath, and Dr. Kreizenbeck in Pittsburgh, PA, by dialing (412) 831-3300.