Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays in their body and can reactivate later in life, causing shingles. However, experts dont fully understand why the virus reactivates in some people and not others. Factors that weaken the immune system increase the risk of developing shingles, including certain illnesses such as HIV, cancer, or autoimmune conditions. Other factors that may trigger shingles include:
- Age: The risk of developing shingles increases with age, and it typically occurs in people older than 50.
- Stress: Stress can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of developing shingles.
- Injury: Injury to the skin where the rash appears may trigger shingles.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as those used to treat cancer or to prevent rejection of transplanted organs, can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of developing shingles.
Its important to note that shingles is not contagious, but a person with shingles can spread the varicella-zoster virus to someone who has never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, causing them to develop chickenpox.
