This reactivation causesshingles, typically characterized by the development of a severe rash.
This leads to the progression of the disease and serious complications.
This article discusses internal shingles, its causes, risk factors, and symptoms.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
It also looks at how internal shingles is treated and prevented.
What Is Internal Shingles?
Internal shingles takes place if the virus that causes chickenpox is reactivated in the body later in life.
This is why shingles is much more common in older adults.
It’s unclear why some people develop a rash with shingles and others don’t.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing shingles include:
Is It Contagious?
It is unclear whether you’ve got the option to spread chickenpox if you have internal shingles.
When this happens, it can cause serious complications.
Encephalitis
If viruses spread into the brain and spine, serious issues can arise.
If untreated, these inflammatory conditions can lead to death.
Palsy causes reduced facial muscle function and can limit the ability to smile or furrow your brow.
Treatment can help you get over your symptoms faster, however, and it can also help prevent complications.
This vaccination is recommended for adults who are over the age of 50 or immunocompromised.
Summary
Internal shingles is shingles without the rash.
Like the typical form of shingles, it is triggered by reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox.
People who are older or immunocompromised are most at risk for getting shingles.
Internal shingles can cause uncomfortable symptoms like nerve pain, chills and fever, and tingling.
Complications like encephalitis and vision loss may occur.
it’s possible for you to prevent shingles by getting a shingles vaccine.
Be mindful of how youre feeling, and if things seem awry, dont hesitate to get help.
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