Shingles and cardiovascular risk: How a childhood virus can cause heart problems in later life

Health risks of shingles: The condition is associated with cardiovascular risk. Research suggests that shingles is associated with a nearly 30 percent higher risk of major cardiovascular events (Image: Canva)

Shingles may seem like an irritating rash that crops up with age. But there’s more to this viral reawakening than a painful spread of blisters. While it might seem like a harmless skin problem, shingles is increasingly being linked to serious complications, including long-term nerve pain and even heart attacks.

It is caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Once you've had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in your nerve tissue. “Most of the time, your immune system keeps the virus at bay, but years or even decades later, it may reactivate as shingles,” says Dr Sanjeev Chaudhary, Chairman, Cardiology at Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram.

It is a painful, blistering rash that appears on one side of the body. But before the rash, people often experience itching, tingling or burning in the affected area. “Even a ‘mild’ case can be extremely painful and tiring,” adds Dr Chaudhary.

Also read | Can shingles vaccine lower dementia risk? All you need to know about a new study

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) you can’t catch shingles from someone else. However, if you've never had chickenpox or been vaccinated against it, you could catch the varicella zoster virus from someone with shingles. In most people, that initial exposure shows up as chickenpox, not shingles.

Shingles is most common in people over 50, and the risk of complications increases with age. “As you age, your immune system weakens, making it easier for the virus to reactivate,” says Dr Chaudhary. Conditions that suppress the immune system or medications like steroids can also increase the risk.

Shingles may appear as a rash, but the pain can feel like a heart, kidney or lung problem. If it affects the cranial nerves, symptoms like facial paralysis or vision changes can mimic a stroke. Multiple studies suggest that anyone who experiences unusual symptoms should seek medical attention right away.

Shingles is also associated with cardiovascular risk. “Research suggests that shingles is associated with a nearly 30 percent higher risk of major cardiovascular events,” cautions Dr Chaudhary. “The risk is highest in the first week following diagnosis, and it may linger for more than a decade. While the exact mechanism is still under study, it’s believed the virus triggers inflammation and damage to blood vessels,” he adds.

Also read | Do you have diabetes? Here's why you should be worried about shingles

Prevention is the best defence:

The virus can cause a lot damage, but with awareness and vaccination, you can stay safe. The CDC recommends a two-dose shingles vaccine for adults over 50, which is more than 90 percent effective. “By preventing shingles, you’re not just avoiding a painful illness, you’re potentially lowering your risk of heart attack or stroke,” Dr Chaudhary stresses.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.