🩹 Shingles – by Internist Medicare Geriatrics Doctor PCP Georgetown TX
- Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
- Oct 13
- 4 min read
🌟 Understanding Shingles
Shingles (also called Herpes Zoster) is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox. After someone recovers from chickenpox, the virus can stay “asleep” in nerve cells for decades—and later reawaken as shingles.
This condition is more common in adults over 50, especially those with weakened immune systems, and can cause intense pain, burning, or tingling before a rash appears.
At Wellness Bay Primary Care, your trusted Internist Medicare geriatrics doctor PCP Georgetown TX, we take shingles seriously and focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and gentle symptom relief.
🔎 Causes of Shingles
The cause is the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV)—the same one that causes chickenpox. After infection, the virus remains dormant in the spinal nerve roots. Years later, it can reactivate due to:
⏳ Aging (weaker immune system)
😷 Stress or illness
💊 Certain medications (like steroids or immunosuppressants)
🧬 Weakened immunity from chronic disease
😴 Fatigue or poor sleep
🚨 Symptoms of Shingles
Shingles usually affects one side of the body or face. Early signs include:
⚡ Burning, tingling, or sensitivity to touch
🤕 Pain or itching before the rash appears
🌡️ Mild fever or fatigue
🩹 Clusters of blisters that eventually scab over
👁️ Eye pain or facial rash (if near the eye—needs urgent care)
The rash typically lasts 2–4 weeks, but pain (called postherpetic neuralgia) may persist for months.
⚠️ Risks of Shingles in Seniors
Shingles can be more severe in older adults, leading to:
Chronic nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia)
Vision or hearing complications
Skin infections from open blisters
Fatigue and poor sleep
Depression or isolation from chronic pain
🧬 What’s Happening in the Body (Pathophysiology) by Internist Medicare Geriatrics Doctor PCP Georgetown TX
When the immune system weakens, dormant Varicella Zoster Virus travels along nerve fibers to the skin, causing inflammation, pain, and blistering. The nerves become hypersensitive, which is why pain can last long after the rash heals.
🌱 Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Risk & Recover Comfortably
💉 Get the Shingles vaccine (Shingrix) – highly effective for adults 50+
😴 Sleep well and reduce stress to strengthen immunity
🥗 Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
🚶 Stay active – regular exercise supports the immune system
💧 Stay hydrated
☀️ Avoid direct sunlight or tight clothing on the rash
🧴 Apply cool compresses and soothing lotions for comfort
💊 Treatment & Support Options
While there’s no cure for shingles, early medical treatment helps shorten its duration and ease discomfort.
🩺 Medical Treatments
Antiviral medications (acyclovir, valacyclovir) – most effective when started within 72 hours of rash onset
Pain relief (acetaminophen, gabapentin, or topical lidocaine)
Anti-inflammatory creams or patches
Antidepressants (in certain cases for nerve pain)
🌿 Supportive Home Care
🧴 Cool compresses for itching
🩹 Loose, soft clothing
🧘 Gentle stress management and rest
At Wellness Bay, we provide personalized treatment plans to manage pain, prevent complications, and speed recovery.
👩⚕️ Personalized Care for Seniors at Wellness Bay
As your trusted Internist Medicare geriatrics doctor PCP Georgetown TX, we:
Diagnose shingles quickly and begin treatment early
Review medications to prevent interactions
Offer guidance on vaccine timing and safety
Provide ongoing follow-up for nerve pain and recovery
Educate patients and families about prevention and care
Our goal is to make sure you’re not only healing, but also comfortable and confident through the process.
❓ Top 10 FAQs About Shingles
Can I get shingles more than once?👉 Yes, though it’s uncommon—it can reoccur if immunity declines again.
Is shingles contagious?👉 You can’t “catch” shingles, but someone who’s never had chickenpox can get chickenpox from contact with open blisters.
How long does shingles last?👉 Typically 2–4 weeks, though pain can linger longer.
Who should get the shingles vaccine?👉 Adults age 50+, and those with weakened immune systems.
Is Shingrix safe?👉 Yes—it's over 90% effective and well-tolerated in seniors.
Can stress really trigger shingles?👉 Absolutely—stress suppresses the immune system, making reactivation more likely.
Does shingles always cause a rash?👉 Usually yes, but some cases can have nerve pain without visible blisters.
What should I do if I think I have shingles?👉 Call your doctor within 72 hours of rash appearance—early antivirals work best.
Can shingles cause permanent nerve pain?👉 Yes, especially in older adults. Early treatment lowers that risk.
When should I see a doctor?👉 If you notice pain or rash on one side of your body, especially near the face or eyes.
👩⚕️ When to See a Doctor
Call your doctor right away if you notice:
Burning or tingling before a rash
Painful blisters on one side of your face or body
Rash near your eye or ear
Intense pain, fever, or weakness
📍 At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we provide same-week appointments and compassionate care to help you recover faster and stay protected with preventive vaccines.
💬 Let’s Keep You Healthy, Together
The Medicare Wellness Visit is your chance to pause, plan, and protect your future health. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we make this visit meaningful, respectful, and centered on you.
📍 Visit us at 4887 Williams Dr Ste 107, Georgetown TX
📞 Call 512.588.7008 or📲 Book online
Proudly, our Internal Medicine Primary Care Practice is Accepting new patients From:
Georgetown, Sun City, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Florence, Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Pflugerville, North Austin, Brushy Creek, Temple, Harker Heights, Bartram, Lampasas, Killeen, Lago Vista, and surrounding areas across Williamson County and North Austin TX
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