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Recurrent Shingles

I am a young healthy (34yo) female.  I had my first outbreak of shingles when I was 20 years old and would break out about once a year around the same time and in the same general area.  From 2005 to this past December 2007 I was outbreak free, but had the rash and symptoms reoccur in the same area only with more generalized pain in my right thigh versus the normal localized pain on my right hip.  Since that outbreak I have had 2 more outbreaks of shingles the most recent starting today.  I did notice that with Valtrex the last time my symptoms resolved much more quickly.  I'm wondering why I am having such frequent outbreaks and has anyone else encountered this?
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Avatar universal
I’m 29 and experiencing my 3rd outbreak of Shingles. It first happened when I was 12, and I can’t imagine I was a very stressed 12year old. However the second time I was 26 and planning my wedding. I was a bit stressed then. Now at 29 I’m 26 weeks pregnant and have an outbreak on my abdomen. I’ve always been very healthy and rarely get sick. I’m just as confused why it keeps happening. All have been on my trunk twice on my side and once on my lower back. My mom said when I was younger I had a really bad case of chickenpox, and I do get cold sores often. Maybe some people are more predisposed to developing herpes outbreaks? My question is has anyone been able to get the Shingles vaccine earlier than 60? If so have you gotten Shingles since?
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Hi there, welcome to the forum!  wow, shingles at 12.  That seems so young!  What does your doctor say about this reoccurrence?  It's my understanding that when young people get shingles, it has to do with a weakened immune system.  Do you have any chronic conditions? I do think it is strange they wouldn't give younger people the vaccine.  That they recover faster doesn't seem a good reason to let them suffer!!  Is it a cost issue?  You'd need it for the rest of your life because it only lasts 10 to 12 years?
Avatar universal
Thank God I have found this. I truly am not alone. I am 32, healthy other than recurring shingles. I've had recurring shingles for 7 years. I'Ve seen multiple Dr's. I'm currently under the care of a dermatologist. No one wants to believe it's shingles, bc it reoccurs and I am young and otherwise healthy. I've been tested for herpes simplex I and II, both negative.  HIV negative. I'm a nurse, I very rarely ever get sick even though I'm constantly exposed to illness. I'm having a biopsy of the outbreak tomorrow, hoping to find some answers. Mine now seems to be connected to hormones. I'm having an outbreak once a month with my menstrual cycles for the last several months. Always lower back but sometimes it's almost on the middle, not just right or left sided. Acyclovir does help. I too have nerve pains in my hips and down my legs and foot depending on which side the outbreak occurs. Also extreme fatigue the day or two before. There has to be an answer! A treatment.
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I am so happy I ran across this blog tonight. I am 50 years old but healthy except for now having shingles for the 4th time. I thought I was the only person on the planet that this had happened to and thought I was going crazy. I wish they would do more research to truly figure out what is going on. It always comes on when my stress level is thru the roof.
You are not alone.  Glad you found the forum.  What has your doctor said about this reoccurrence?
744688 tn?1482203488
I have reoccurring shingles otherwise I am very healthy! I found this in WEBMD archives...
The article is from Nov. 2, 2009 (Philadelphia) however, I just recently discovered it. I was unable to post the link so I sent part of the article -- "People with shingles are more likely to suffer a recurrence than previously thought. .."We don't know what causes reactivation of the dormant virus," Moore says. Moore and colleagues studied the medical records of nearly 1,700 people with a confirmed shingles attack from 1996 to 2001. Only 8% had compromised immune systems, she says. But 95 of them suffered 105 recurrences by the end of 2007. "Clearly most recurrent attacks are occurring in people with healthy immune systems," she says.
The time between attacks ranged from 96 days to 10 years. Recurrences were:
2.8 times more likely in people with shingles-associated pain for 30 or more days during the initial episode. 4.8 times more likely in people with shingles-associated pain for 60 or more days during the initial episode. 60% more likely in women than men. 40% more likely in people who were 50 or older when they had their initial attack... I tried to post the link to this article but, for some reason they didn't allow it to be posted. " ...
About me and my reoccurring shingles - I am now a 54-year-old female. I have been getting reoccurring shingles since I was 12 years. I also had shingles with both my pregnancies. I read an article that said it happens frequently during pregnancy. I am in excellent health I am very fit just last weekend I rode my bike in 2 days over 300 miles. I was a college gymnast and performing arts major in dance. I have always been athletic and continue to maintain my fitness. However, since getting older the frequency of my recurrences seems to come quicker and are becoming more painful with each episode. The pain is more in my hip-flexor on the side I get it in on my back. Sometimes it's my left side sometimes it's my right side. I also get a neck ache if I get it at the base of my neck. I feel very frustrated because the pain can be quite debilitating in my hip-flexor or hip joint when I get it on my back. When I get it at the base of my neck it causes my neck to be stiff. It's also very frustrating because no one believes you. It's embarrassing to share with anyone that I have reoccurring shingles because they think there something wrong with me, or they do not believe me.
My favorite part of the article (the one that I was unable to send the link for so everyone could see the whole article) is... "Clearly most recurrent attacks are occurring in people with healthy immune systems," ... Doctors need to become more aware of this information because it's almost like the Doctors shame you if you tell them you've had it more than once. I'm so tired of feeling embarrassed and ashamed for having shingles. So not only do I have to feel embarrassed and ashamed but, while I'm feeling this way I'm also in horrible pain from the shingles. I do hope that they will continue to do research in this area. I also hope Doctors get the word out some people just have reoccurring shingles and it's nothing to be ashamed. NO one knows exactly what reactivates the virus for some people it could be as little as a small amount of stress. I keep wondering what maybe we all have in common. I know that I'm allergic to Bacterium. I also know that I'm have A- blood. I do you take Celebrex for my hips, I have arthritis in my hips from overuse (the dance and gymnastics) .
      Some other reasons people might have reoccurring shingles 1). Having experienced injuries or nerve damage also seems to raise the risk for shingles, since within the nerves is where the virus lays dormant. 2). Some research suggests that traumatic stimulation of the nerves in the dorsal root ganglion can trigger the virus to reactive. 3). Some people also seem to be genetically predisposed to the development of herpes zoster to some extent, with research showing that changes in the gene for interleukin-10 (an immune-system mediator) are associated with an increased incidence of herpes zoster, as is a family history of the virus. 4). Finally, the impact of high amounts of stress and poor gut health shouldn’t be overlooked. Psychological stress, chronic stress, or dramatic life events seem to contribute to VZV reactivation, with studies showing an association between physical, emotional and sexual abuse and higher incidence of shingles. According to a report published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, contributing psychological factors for shingles development include financial stress, inability to work, decreased independence and an inadequate social-support environment.
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I’m not allergic to anything but do have A- blood too!
Avatar universal
I too have suffered from recurring shingles since the age of about 12. I am now 34. I recently started getting into essential oils and clean eating.. really anything that can help me rid this stuff for good. I get shingles right below my left eye, always the same spot, with tenderness and a burning sensation that doesn't go away for days. I have tried Anti virals but they barely cut down the duration time and cause an upset stomach. I have found that applying  a couple drops of Fractioned coconut oil, 1 drop of melaleuca oil and 1 drop lavender oil and applying it very gently to the affected area does help with the pain and cuts down the duration of the outbreak without side effects.
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Avatar universal
i am 46.  had this issue about 8 years.  had chicken pox as a kind and never had this vaccine either as a kid or an adult.  not immuno - compromised.  so why me?
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2 Comments
I am a 35 year old female. I have recurrent episode where one side of my face will feel really sensitive and painful. A year or so ago I had this sensation on my back. The doctor thought it was shingles but I never developed any lesions. 3 months ago on my right eye I developed a lesson on the bottom outside of my right eye lid. Also a lymph node in front of my right ear was swollen. I was concerned was shingles. PA thought it may be but also diagnosed as conjunctivitis and but me on antibiotic drops. Saw my regular doctor the next day, he didn't think was shingles because wasn't in typical pattern so advised against taking the antiviral. 4 days ago the inside(close to my nose) eyelids began to itch. The next morning the skin was sensitive. I started having the sensitive sensation on the right side of my face. The next morning eye was swollen and lymphnode under ear at jaw line was swollen and hard. I began using the antibiotic drops in my eye like before. After four days of antibiotic drops, ibuprophen and warm compresses it was no better actually worse with facial swelling and pain all on the right side. I went to urgent care this morning. PA stained eye to make sure no lessions and my eye sight was fine. She said it could be allergies but typically don't have pain in face with allergies. She thinks it is shingles but that they don't follow a typical nerve pattern. She thinks I did have shigles before and this time is worse. So going to get antiviral med and take. Just so tired of this. Any ideas or comments appreciated.
I hope the comment  I left below will help you out. By the way I did not mean to post it twice. It's the same comment posted two times sorry about that.
Know that you're not alone !
Avatar universal
mine is same location (tailbone), but im only on my 4-5th attack over about 8 years.   Mine come every 18months- 2 years.  Blisters appear about 2-3 days after intense itching.  Dont get real pain - the area is just tender when the blisters arrive.  I'm not immunocompromised as far as i know.  Im now 46 - so this has been happening through late 30s/early 40s.
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Avatar universal
Check this out, all you other younger people who are suffering from this stuff too.  The government messed us up by giving the decade below us Chicken Pox vaccine and now our immune systems are ill equipped to defend us against the shingles virus:
http://www.macleans.ca/society/health/generation-at-risk/
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Avatar universal
I am 31, and I had my second outbreak in 4 months recently, while I was dealing with a very painful tailbone injury.  Similarly to the body pain/trauma issues you mentioned.
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Avatar universal
Hi!
I began suffering random vertigo spells about 8 months ago.  Sudden onset dizziness, felt like the whole world was moving and that I would fall, with residual nausea for a couple hours.  Very scary, but I never got in for an MRI.  I ended up coming to the conclusion that they were stress-related, but did not happen during high-stress moments, but perhaps an after-shock effect? This happened repeatedly and randomly for about 4 months.
Then, 4 months ago, I broke out in Shingles.  I was 30 years old, and other than my stressful job, financial and living situation (actress in traveling theatre productions), I am quite healthy.  It was on my outer upper right thigh, near my butt.  Valtrex helped it go away, even though I'd already had it a month before it was diagnosed.
then, a couple weeks ago, I got Shingles again! 3 months later.  Again, I could only think of blaming stress as a possible factor... I got on Valtrex sooner this time, and covered it with a bandaid.  It seems to be almost gone again.
...I never thought that perhaps the vertigo and the shingles could be related, until I saw your post about the dizziness!  You may be on to something.
While it doesn't really help the situation, it feels somewhat relieving to know someone else out there shares a similar experience.
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Avatar universal
I have had at least one outbreak a year ever since the first, in 2002, when I was 39 and pregnant. I know get valtrax at the first sign. Last year I got the vaccination and was outbreak free for 13 months, but here we go again. I'm otherwise healthy and the only thing particularly stressful is reoccurring shingles.
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Avatar universal
I've experienced recurring shingles since my 20s - I'm now 50. The frequency varies, but it's always in one of two places (right rib cage or forehead - ans that is why I'll *always* have bangs!  :)  My doctor told me that you can't get shingles more than once - which is why he is no longer my doctor! I have found that Abreva (topical ointment used for cold sores) knocks it out fast! As soon as I feel that first itchy tingle, I know another outbreak is on its way. I slather the area with Abreva, and most of the time I can catch it before the first blister forms. I use it multiple times a day until the danger has passed. It's a little expensive, but it doesn't take much at all. I don't know if it will work for others, but I wanted to share in the hope it will help someone!
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1 Comments
How many times per day do you apply abreva when you feel it coming on
Avatar universal
Wow... They just keep pumping you full of valtrex and it does nothing but worsen your condition it seems. I'd find a new doctor. That vaccine is intended for people of at least 50 years of age or older. They do not have a proper vaccination that has proven to be significantly effective in the prevention and or treatment of shingles in younger adults, from what articles I have read. And why would they keep administering it... Valtrex is supposed to be a one-time vaccination. Recurrent shingles as they are referring to it is obviously a mutated strand of the virus which they have no idea how to treat as of yet. These asshats who diagnose and vaccinate you weren't even aware that shingles has the potential to become frequently recurrent and/or affect adults under the age of 50 more often than assumed until numerous people were reporting similar symptoms.
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Avatar universal
Hello, I am searching online for others who suffer from constant shingles outbreaks.  I have had reoccurring shingles on my lower left back, which seems to travel about 12 inches, from my upper butt cheek, then higher on my back.  I have had this condition for many years.  Typical outbreaks occur 2-3 weeks apart.  On rare occasions, I might go for a 6-8 weeks without a breakout.  Pretty painful event with onset pain in my left leg and hip nerves and discomfort in my lower left back.  Anyone else exhibit this sort of frequency?
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Avatar universal
Same thing here too. 4th time and it is following bronchitis this time. It seems like anything from stress to a cold bring mine out.... I am tired and frustrated at the lack of research and treatment. I am going to speak with my primary care physician and ask for refills. Thanks for the idea. Hope you are well!
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11656207 tn?1420205621
I had shingles for the 1st time in 2010, I was 54 at the time. Now, last month I had a second outbreak on my neck which was short lived as I took meds and used a fantastic gel which has comfrey in it. Stops the itching and clears up the rash for me FAST! However, a week after the neck rash went away a rash popped up on my right hand. Then a day later another rash showed up on my left arm and left leg. This is too weird! I am clearing up the rashes quickly with my comfrey gel but am concerned about the recurrence of this so quickly and in several areas. I was told by the doctor to get a shingles shot as soon as this clears up. Hopefully it will without another outbreak somewhere else on my person!
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Avatar universal
I feel your pain. When I was little i had an outbreak next to eye and my previous doctor told me it was herpes zoster. My current doctor told mr it has to be hsv. I had a culture done and swore it said zoster. Next time i have an outbreak i want my current doctor to do a culture. The sun causes many if my outbreaks:(
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Avatar universal
You realize herpes zoster is shingles, right? That is the scientific term is all.
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Avatar universal
And sorry if I have been too technical,and not addressing to the problem you have faced and apologies if I have been less sensitive.
My best wishes.
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Avatar universal
While I am only addressing the diagnostic dilemma of a doctor working in the third world, and the economics involved here, a definitely diagnosed recurrent zoster patient,as I understand can get a zoster vaccine to prevent further recurrence.
Also I am well aware that recurrent zoster in the immunocompetent is more recognized today than ever before.
I thank you for addressing the issue here.
Cheers.
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Avatar universal
Another reason for proper diagnosis is the
risk of instituting improper treatment, which can cause
complications.
Incorrect diagnosis of HSV infection as VZV infection
will therefore eventually lead to increased inconvenience,
cost and time incurred by both patients, hospitals and
employers.
(8)8. Kalman CM, Laskin OL. Herpes zoster and zosteriform herpes
simplex virus infections in immunocompetent adults. Am J Med 1986;
81:775-8
Kindly check with your doc.
Best wishes.
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Avatar universal
alot of the same story, new illness, another outbreak. Every specialist says I have an autoimmune problem, but no 2 agree on which one. I just found a primary willing to call in a valtrex rx when I feel it happening, or know it's gonna. If I am going to have a surgery or prolonged pain or high stress-I just know. I have heard everything from fibromyalgia to reynaud's to lupus. I thought I had poison ivy my first time, and let it go almost 5 weeks before I went to the doc for cortisone-lol. I had never even HEARD of shingles. By then the damage was done. Sooner you start antivirals, less pain and scarring-and chance of PHN later.
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Avatar universal
Kind of obnoxious that you, who have never seen any of these people, or me for that matter, can just decide it's simplex 1 or 2. Do you think we diagnosed this ourselves on WebMD? I've been to my primary doctor, who took a culture for complete lab testing, and two Neurologists specializing in PHN during recurring outbreaks for additional testing. I had my first outbreak after my second lumpectomy. I thought I had poison ivy, after a month I saw my primary. By then the damage was done. Who gets shingles at 35? My second outbreak was post mastectomy in the hospital, and once I conviced the doctors it wasn't a reaction to the antibiotic, valtrex cleared it in 2 days (after 3 days of trying different antibiotics). Every major stress or procedure since has been a recurrence. Just had knee microfracturing done, and guess what? Shingles two days later! Now I'm 39. The truth is they know about zilch about the how and why this happens in certain groups of younger people, but it does. Everything they knew in the last 10 years has been "edited." For those of you also suffering, you know the feeling, when it's starting. Find a primary willing to keep a 10 day course of Valtrex as a call in or with refills on hand. Sooner you start, lesser the suffering and scarring.
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Avatar universal

In conclusion, as demonstrated in this
case report, recurrent “zosteriform” eruptions caused
by HSV infection can mimic herpes zoster infection.
We recommend the use of laboratory test for accurate
diagnosis, in order for proper treatment and isolation
protocols to be instituted.

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Avatar universal
Zosteriform herpes simplex
smj.sma.org.sg/4902/4902cr9.pdf

This reference should answer you.
Regards.
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