What Is Shingles?
Shingles is a skin condition that presents as an itchy, painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Dr. Renee Snyder and her team of Austin, TX board-certified dermatologists treat shingles, which can appear anywhere on the body. In most cases, shingles are present on the torso or on the side of the face as a line of blisters. While it is more common for older adults to develop shingles, it can also appear in teens and younger adults. Most patients who have a bout with shingles will improve and not experience the condition again. However, in some patients, it can be returned. Researchers believe that shingles are caused by a weakened immune system or a disruption within the nervous system. Our skilled and knowledgeable dermatologists can effectively treat shingles and decrease the risk of reoccurring.
What Causes Shingles?
Anyone who has ever had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles because after a patient recovers from chickenpox, the virus may enter the nervous system and lie dormant for years. A weakened immune system caused by stress, disease, or overall aging can put a patient at risk for shingles. It’s unclear why the virus is reactivated, but only shingles can develop spontaneously, not chickenpox. There’s also a small chance that a patient with a shingles rash can spread the virus to a person who’s either never had chickenpox or never received the chickenpox vaccine.
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Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today to speak with a member of the Snyder Dermatology team. We’re here to address your concerns with compassionate and effective care.
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Dr. Parker has been my dermatologist for years, and she is terrific. She saw my 14-year-old for the first time yesterday yesterday, and was very thorough, knowledgeable, and kind. She guided her through a skin care routine, and gave her lots of tips about keeping her skin fresh. We feel so lucky to know Dr. Parker.
-Sarah K.
I’ve had two different doctors and have been going to this office since 2021. I’ve had nothing but great experiences. They were knowledgeable and aggressive in getting my eczema flare ups under control. They offer cheaper options for getting expensive prescriptions, which is always a plus! The staff in the front and on the phones are helpful and kind. The nurses ask considerate and relevant questions. I feel like my doctors really understand my concerns and do their best to help me know how to use the medicines correctly. Can’t recommend them enough!
-Robin R.
Dr. Snyder and Jenn are amazing! I have had two services with Dr. Snyder and highly recommend him for any plastic surgery needs. Jennifer and Kalli are great too. His entire staff made me feel welcomed and were friendly and responsive. If you are looking for a plastic surgeon- go see Dr. Ned Snyder. His bedside manner and personality are a 10!
-Michael W.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
MEET OUR DOCTORS
Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
Symptoms of Shingles
The symptoms of shingles are usually only noticeable on a small section of one side of the body. The most common symptoms of this condition are pain, tingling, numbness, itching or burning, and/or a red rash. These symptoms usually appear a few days after the patient first experiences pain. Other symptoms include sensitivity to touch, fluid-filled blisters that can break open and crust over, fatigue, light sensitivity, fever, or a headache. Some patients have reported shingles feeling similar to having the flu. Those who have shingles usually find that their symptoms arrive in stages, with pain occurring first and then visible skin-related symptoms.
How to Treat Shingles
While there’s no cure for shingles, there are a number of antiviral drugs that can provide relief, clear up symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications. Common medications include Valtrex®, Famvir®, and Zovirax®. Since shingles can be particularly painful, a doctor may prescribe a numbing agent in the form of a gel, cream, skin patch or spray. Pain relief creams such as capsaicin cream can be applied to the shingles’ rash to reduce pain. Prescription-strength painkillers can also be prescribed. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe an anti-depressant to help a patient cope with the pain and symptoms and decrease the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia, persistent pain in the area even after the shingles rash cleared up.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have experienced any of the painful or visible symptoms associated with shingles, please call our dermatology office today to schedule an appointment for a thorough examination. Our team of highly trained medical professionals will be able to evaluate your symptoms, provide a proper diagnosis, and get you started with the proper treatment protocol.