Who Is at Risk for Shingles?
Shingles can occur in anyone who has had chickenpox. However, certain factors put individuals at risk for developing shingles. Risk factors include: being 60 or older having had chickenpox before the age of 1 having diseases that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer having had chemotherapy or radiation treatment taking drugs that weaken the immune system, such as steroids or medications given after an organ transplant Part 3 of 7: Symptoms Symptoms of Shingles The first symptoms of shingles are usually pain and burning. The pain is usually on one side of the body and occurs in small patches. A red rash typically follows. Rash characteristics include: red patches fluid-filled blisters that break easily a rash that wraps around from the spine to the torso a rash on the face and ears itching Some individuals experience symptoms beyond pain and a rash with shingles. These symptoms may include: fever chills headache fatigue or muscle weakness Part 4 of 7: Diagnos...