Are You at Risk for Shingles?
June 13, 2017
Anyone who has had chicken pox can get shingles. Shingles is a very painful skin rash that usually develops in a band, small area, or strip. The rash is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox – known as the varicella zoster virus.
If you are over 50, or have a weakened immune system, your risk of developing shingles is increased. While most people who get the virus will recover fully, it is possible to develop shingles more than once.
Once you have chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in your body. Age, stress, and certain medications can cause the virus to re-activate in the form of shingles.
What Do Shingles Look Like?
The shingles rash is red and is made up of fluid-filled blisters that have crusted over. It will normally be limited to one small area of the body, and will often be very painful.
Are There Other Symptoms of Shingles?
Before seeing the rash, you might experience a headache, sensitivity to light, and a general ill feeling, as if you have the flu.
Next, you might notice tingling, pain, or itching in an isolated area, followed in a few days by the rash.
You might also experience dizziness, weakness, changes in vision and difficulty thinking.
Not every person will experience all of these symptoms.
How Long Does Shingles Last?
The rash usually lasts 2 – 4 weeks. However, the rash can leave permanent scars, and complications can occur that lead to nerve damage.
What Do I Do If I Think I Have Shingles?
If you suspect you have shingles, come in to Quick Med Care right away. Your provider can prescribe medications to help the rash go away sooner and ease the pain. Getting treatment early can reduce your risk of complications and permanent damage.
It is especially important to seek immediate treatment is you have shingles on your face or around your eye. Permanent damage to your vision is possible.
Can I Spread Shingles to Someone Else?
While shingles is caused by a virus, it cannot be transmitted to another person. However, it is possible, in rare cases, to spread the chicken pox virus to another. Limit contact with any unvaccinated children.
Can I Prevent Shingles?
There is a vaccine available to adults that can reduce your risk of contracting the shingles virus by 50 percent. It is still possible to get shingles after receiving the vaccine, however the severity and duration of the outbreak is lessened.
The vaccine is approved for adults over 50. Most Medicare Part D plans cover the vaccine, but check your specific coverage for details. Contact your primary care physician if you are interested in the vaccine.
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The entire staff was very caring. I had my toddler with me and she was a bit rowdy and they gave her crayons with coloring pages and stickers and even a lollipop to help keep her occupied.
My son scribbled on a piece of paper and handed it to one of the woman in the front, saying that is say how his ears hurt, she accepted it and posted it on the artwork wall, when the PA came in to see him he was made to feel like a big deal because he had known about the paper. This is a place where the staff really cares about their patients and go the extra mile for them
Have been there a few times and hey have always been very fast, kind, courteous and welcoming. Always very helpful especially the front desk. The employee Heather helped me with pharmacy, paperwork and everything I needed help with. Only quick care I go too because of her.
I absolutely love our nurse Tiffany. She made our visit so comfortable. I had two very sick little boys who did not want to go to the Dr. She made the at ease in an instant and she took such great care of them. This was at the Quick care on 441 in Ocala Fl. I'll go back to this one because of her. And recommended to all my friends and family. Thanks so much!
A Big THANK YOU, to the Staff at Quick Care Med, in Dunnellon!! My Husband was seen, for a couple different ailments, during his visit,, and the Two Practitioners who worked with Him, were AWESOME! They treated my Big, 200 pound, 6 ft. "Baby",, with Respect, Dignity, and Professionalism, and just the right amount of Calming Firmness!! Lol... he's afraid of Needles, and Doctor Offices, in general and I must say, that GWEN, & DEBBIE, were very good to him! Prices for services rendered, were ve
Great sweet people
I was there yesterday and I've never felt so shocked. The 3 girls I interacted with were the most pleasant and friendly caregivers I've ever dealt with. Idr the rep's name, but she was quick and prompt at taking all my info and with minimal Qs (kinda hard to answer when I have a cold), then Alexis took over. Very sympathetic, nice, and helpful. Then the physician saw me and was charismatic and very funny. Trying to keep me in good spirits. It was like all 3 were happy to be at their posts and to
Anytime, we've ever been there, all of the physicians are very caring and helpful, they don't rush or make you feel unimportant... I wish we could have them as our GP
Very friendly,professional. Very caring of patients.Victoria was excellent. Took time to listen and made you feel comfortable.
We had Zaib Kahn as the provider and NEVER have I seen such a good bedside manner, as they call it! AND he personally called this a.m. to ask how my husband is feeling! (The pharmacy was closed when we left the ofc., and they asked us to allow until 11 to pick up the RXs, but that's NOT YOUR fault ;D I'm thrilled w/ Mr. Kahn's service and may well use your clinic for ALL my medical needs!!!! THANK YOU
Professional staff, caring and organized. Prompt service for DOT related visits.
The absolute BEST! Everyone here is so nice! We've had to come in a few times & they've always taken great care of us. We're usually out within 20-30 min. All the girls up front are very nice & helpful (you don't find that too often), so is the girl that takes your vitals. Dr B is the amazing! He takes his time to listen to what's wrong & always has a big smile. If we could have this office as our primary care location we would
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