Shingles

Shingles is associated with the virus varicella zoster, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox.  After the incubated period for chickenpox has passed, the varicella zoster virus remains in nerve cells in the body without further symptoms.  As a previously infected person with chicken pox ages and or their immune system weakens, this virus can reactivate again.  Once the varicella zoster virus reactivates, it appears in the form of herpes zoster, also known as shingles.  This is a rash, which has painful blisters and appears in a narrow band on one side of the person’s body.  Herpes zoster usually only affects older adults, however young people and children can also be susceptible to it.

If a child develops shingles, it appears as a rash, beginning as a cluster of red bumps on one side of the body.  The rash eventually can transform into vesicles or small blisters appearing in a red color on various areas of the victim’s skin.  These vesicles and small blisters will gradually lessen in swelling and redness over time, and eventually, the affected areas will crust over.  Patients often note the itching and discomfort of this disease.  The condition also causes itching and pain following the disappearance of symptoms for some patients. 

The aftermath of this disease leaves some victims with skin malformations and irregularities.  In some cases, the skin becomes discolored, raised, or scarred, and these affects remain throughout the victim’s lifetime.  For this reason, seeking the help of a pediatrician for shingles symptoms is vital for children and adults as well.  When catching the appearance of the virus early, pediatricians administer several forms of medication that can significantly reduce the appearance, severity, and duration of the symptoms.  For those without any permanent scarring or discoloration, seeking early medical assistance and advice was an integral factor in preventing these undesirable results.

Children with the shingles are contagious and can transmit the virus onto others who are not immune.  Persons having other siblings or that are in close contact with their children are at risk for Shingles and the ensuing symptoms as well if they are not already immune.  For this reason, pediatricians recommend all family members seek the inspection of a medical professional in the event one or more family members is diagnosed with having shingles.  If these symptoms appear in your child, it is important to contact a pediatrician right away.