Can You Get Shingles Under Your Breast

Can Shingles Cause Chronic Pain

In some people, the pain of shingles may linger for months or even years after the rash has healed. This pain, due to damaged nerves in and beneath the skin, is known as postherpetic neuralgia. Others feel a chronic itch in the area where the rash once was. In severe cases, the pain or itching may be bad enough to cause insomnia, weight loss, or depression.

Chickenpox Is Caused By The Same Virus

The same virus, varicella zoster virus, causes both chickenpox and shingles.

Chickenpox typically causes an itchy rash that spreads over the entire body, as opposed to just one side of the body or face like shingles. More than 99 percent of Americans born on or before 1980 have had chickenpox, per the CDC. If you dont know if you had chickenpox, check with your family doctor, who can review your records.

Is There A Vaccine For Shingles

There are two shingles vaccines currently available, Shingrix and Zostavax. Shingrix vaccine, a newer vaccine, is preferred over Zostavax for the prevention of shingles and its complications. Two doses of Shingrix given 2 to 6 months apart are recommended for healthy adults 50 years of age and older. Shingrix is also recommended for adults who have previously received Zostavax. A single dose of Zostavax may still be used to prevent shingles in certain cases for healthy adults 60 years and older.

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Vaccinations Can Help You Avoid Shingles

The CDC recommends that individuals who are 50 years or older get two doses of the shingles vaccine called Shingrix. Exceptions to this recommendation include pregnant women, people with a moderate or severe illness, those who currently have shingles and anyone allergic to the ingredients in the vaccine itself.

Shingrix provides a safe, effective defense against shingles. After you are vaccinated, you may experience some side effects including swelling or pain at the injection site, upset stomach, fever, shivering, headaches, muscle pain and fatigue.

Do you need to schedule the shingles vaccine or are you experience symptoms of shingles? Contact Nashville Healthcare Center for more information.

This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should talk with your primary care physician or other qualified medical professionals regarding diagnosis and treatment of a health condition.

Who’s At Risk For Shingles

Anyone who has ever had chickenpox can get shingles, but the risk increases with age. People older than age 60 are up to 10 times more likely to get shingles than younger people. Other factors that increase your risk include:

• Some cancer medicines
• A weak immune system from illnesses such as cancer or HIV

A quarter of adults will develop shingles at some point, and most are otherwise healthy.

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Eczema Can Cause Red Itchy Skin With Bumps

Like shingles, a skin allergy can also cause red, bumpy, itchy skin, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology . These reactions include eczema, hives, and contact dermatitis. Eczema can cause dry, red, itchy, irritated skin, per the ACAAI. Small, oozing, fluid-filled bumps may also appear, especially when the skin is infected. Eczema is most common on the face, inside the elbows and behind the knees, and on the hands and feet, per MedlinePlus. There is no cure for eczema, but treatments can help manage the condition.

When To See A Doctor About A Rash Under The Breasts

Skin rashes come in all sorts of shapes and sizes with varying symptoms. They can be challenging to diagnose, especially if they appear suddenly or without any obvious cause. While some rashes are harmless, others can be potentially life-threatening.

See your doctor if you have a skin rash with any of the following symptoms:

• The rash is fast-spreading over a large area of your body.
• Your skin is bright red, hot, and thick.
• You have a fever, shivering, nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating, or abnormal fatigue.
• Your skin is discolored, blistering, bleeding, or peeling.
• There are dark, asymmetrical spots with multiple colors.
• The rash or spots change shape and size.

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Where Does Shingles Appear On The Body

People most commonly have shingles blisters or a localized rash appearing on one side of the trunk and shoulder area. People may also experience shingles on the back, scalp, face or neck. Other areas shingles may appear include the arms, hands or legs, and some people may even develop shingles in the eyes. In rare cases, it’s possible to have shingles without a rash. The rash develops in new clusters every three to five days before drying and crusting over, typically in seven to 10 days, and fully clears up within four weeks.

Heat Rash Under Breast

Heat rash on the skin on the underside of boobs.

Prickly heat rash is a red or pink rash usually found on body areas covered by clothing. It can develop when the sweat ducts become blocked and swell and often leads to discomfort and itching. . Heat rash is sometimes called a sweat rash. It occurs commonly during and after exercise. Heat rash produces symptoms such as the following:

• Red bumps on the skin.
• An itchy feeling or prickly feeling on the skin. This is called prickly heat.
• Tiny red blisters as a result of inflammation.

Heat rash is common in babies, usually when they are overdressed. Hot weather can also cause heat rash. In the breast area, heat rash may be due to too tight bras that do not allow the underside of your boobs to breathe. Without air circulation in this area, red dots or tiny pimples on the breast area may form.

During hot and humid months, heat rash under breasts is common. It is also prevalent during pregnancy when a womans breast size increases. Sometimes, during this time, hormonal changes in the body may lead to heat rashes on the chest and underneath the breast. These occur from excessive sweating or perspiration.

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Shingle Rash Under Breast

n48638

I was diagnosed with shingles 3 weeks ago and started anti viral medication late . This is my first time having shingles. Besides the exhaustion and nerve pain, the location of the rash is under my breast making it so painful to wear a bra which is making me house bound. I want to ask if anyone had a rash in the same area and if there is a way to speed up the healing. I also have some of the rash looking similar to red pimples. When I don’t wear a bra the it is so manageable but when I wear a bra then the discomfort and itchiness is unbearable due to the location of the rash and I have tried every bra including a gauze and no luck due to the location. I cannot get away without a bra due to the size of my bust. I feel so down as I am not sure how long this rash is going to stay and how long am I going to suffer. I remember when I got chicken pox that some of the red pimples never went away and I even still have two of them on my body from my childhood. I am worried if the shingle pimples remain under my breast and how to deal with it. I also don t feel that the doctor understands how unbearable it is for the bra to sit on the rash and I had to insist on a doctor certificate just to not wear a bra and stay at home for at least this week. Thank you

2 likes, 16 replies

Who Should Get The Shingles Vaccine

The shingles vaccine is recommended for individuals age 50 and older with a healthy immune system, even if the person has received Zostavax for shingles in the past or has had a prior episode of herpes zoster. Individuals age 19 and older who are currently or will be immunodeficient or immunosuppressed because of underlying disease or therapy should also receive the shingles vaccine.

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Identifying Treating And Preventing Shingles Under The Breast

A shingle is a viral infection characterized by a band or cluster of blisters appearing on parts of the body, usually the face or torso. One in three Americans¹ will develop shingles at some point in their lives.

Like all cases of the infection, a shingles rash under the breasts is uncomfortable and may lead to complications if untreated. This post outlines the process of identifying, treating, and avoiding complications from shingles under the breast.

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Week One: Stroke And Heart Attack Risk

While the risk of a post-shingles stroke is highest amongst those whose shingles outbreak impacted their eyes, overall, people with shingles have a 2.4-fold increased risk of stroke and 1.7-fold increased chance of heart attack during the first week after getting diagnosed, found a report featured in the journal PLOS Medicine. While ones risk gradually lessened after that, it takes about 27 weeks to completely roll the risk back to baseline. Its thought that shingles-induced inflammation may lead to blood clots that could then, in turn, cause a stroke or heart attack. Adding to the risk: A spike in blood pressure due to pain and stress associated with shingles.

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Breast Cancer Treatment And Rashes

People who are having treatment for breast cancer may develop rashes as a result of their treatment. Some forms of breast cancer medication, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiation can cause rashes, but they are unlikely to affect only the breast.

Before starting any treatment, a person should talk with a doctor about possible side effects, including breast rashes.

The skin on the breast is prone to many common and relatively harmless rashes. Some common, noncancerous causes of rashes on the breast and other areas of the body include:

How Is Internal Shingles Treated

There have been few trial studies that have examined internal shingles or the best treatments for this particular type of shingles. Thats why there are currently no guidelines for treatment. Instead, doctors rely on standard treatment for classic shingles.

Even though shingles is a virus, this is a case where there are antiviral medications available by prescription. Thats why its important to see a doctor right away if you suspect you have shingles. Early treatment may reduce the risk of complications, like PHN. Serious complications require hospitalization.

Common antiviral medications for shingles include:

Depending on the location and severity of shingles, steroids may also help. Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and pain-relieving medication such as acetaminophen or other prescription pain medication can help in easing pain experienced from shingles.

People whove had multiple bouts with internal shingles may be

estimated 1 in 3 people in the United States throughout their lifetime, according to the CDC. In certain cases, the virus can cause more severe infections, inflammation, or complications.

Its unclear how many people experience internal shingles, but its a rare condition. However, depending on the organ system affected, it can be life threatening.

They can provide a series of effective ways to manage symptoms and treat the virus. They can also check you to make sure you dont have a more serious complication.

This vaccine is over

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B Steroid Cream For Intertrigo Treatment

Since intertrigo results in skin irritation or inflammation, your doctor is likely to recommend a steroid cream. This will reduce the inflammation and allow the rash under breast to heal.

A protective barrier or cream may also be applied to reduce friction. Drying medications are also commonly given to reduce moisture build-up below the breast. An example is Domeboro soaks. In the case of an accompanying bacterial and fungal infection, antifungal medications or antibacterial ointments may be given.

When Is Shingles Contagious And How Long Is Shingles Contagious

Individuals are considered contagious until their blisters are dry and crusted over, which takes two to four weeks. Help reduce the spread of shingles by not touching the rash and keeping it covered. During the contagious period, avoid contact with pregnant women who aren’t protected against chickenpox, premature infants and people with weakened immune systems.

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What Are Shingles Vaccine Side Effects

Expected side effects from Shingrixinclude pain, redness or swelling at the site where the injection is given, headache, fever, tiredness, muscle pain and stomach discomfort. Side effects should improve within two to three days.

Anyone who is allergic to the vaccine should not receive a shingles vaccine. Someone who has a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication or anyone who is interested in receiving the vaccine should talk to their pharmacist or healthcare provider to see if the shingles vaccine is the right choice for them.

How To Prevent Shingles: Get Vaccinated

Two vaccines may help prevent the shingles virus: the chickenpox vaccine and the shingles vaccine. The shingles vaccine is approved for adults ages 50 and older and for those 18 and older with weakened immune systems or at increased risk of herpes zoster because of a disease or treatment, according to the CDC.

Per the CDC, talk to your doctor about getting a shingles vaccination if you are 50 or older or if you have the following risk factors:

• You have cancer, especially leukemia or lymphoma.
• You are a bone marrow or solid organ transplant recipient.
• You take immunosuppressive medications, including steroids, chemotherapy, or transplant-related medications.

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Shingles : Your Questions Answered

The rates of shingles in the U.S. are on the rise, and that doesn’t refer to the shingles on your roof.

A vaccine is available to reduce your risk of becoming infected with shingles , but it’s still important to understand the shingles virus, shingles symptoms, causes of shingles, how to treat shingles and the shingles vaccine to prevent the disease. Spend a few minutes to get your shingles questions answered here in Shingles 101.

Shingles Or Something Else

Small blisters that appear only on the lips or around the mouth may be cold sores, sometimes called fever blisters. They’re not shingles, but are instead caused by the herpes simplex virus. Itchy blisters that appear after hiking, gardening, or spending time outdoors could be a reaction to poison ivy, oak, or sumac. If you aren’t sure what’s causing your rash, see your healthcare provider.

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You Strained A Muscle

A strain to your chest muscles after a challenging workout might feel like breast pain even though the injury is elsewhere.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, over-the-counter pain relievers may be enough to ease muscular pain. A healthcare provider may recommend something stronger if the pain is more severe.

Muscle problems are just one type of “extramammary” pain or pain that originates outside of the breast tissue but is felt in the breast. According to Stat Pearls, other causes of extramammary pain include stomach and gallbladder disease.

Of course, don’t overlook any chest pain that could signify a heart attack. According to the CDC, heart attack symptoms may include:

• Pain in your neck, jaw, or back
• Pain in your arms or shoulders
• Shortness of breath

Other symptoms, more likely in females, include tiredness, nausea, and vomiting.

Stage : Rash Outbreak

The second stage of shingles is an eruption of the rash itself, typically 34 days after you first experience the tingling and burning sensation.

The rash typically appears as a band or strap. It includes fluid-filled blisters and lasts 24 weeks. The rash at this stage can be painful.

Some people experience a minor rash or skin irritation. For other people, the rash can cover a larger area. Flu-like symptoms may also occur at this stage.

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How To Treat Shingles In Kids

Not all children require treatment for shingles. Mild cases of the condition resolve without treatment. However, take your child to see their doctor if you have any concerns. A doctor can prescribe antiviral medication and pain relievers if your child has symptoms interfering with their quality of life.

Why Does Shingles Develop Under The Breast

Shingles can develop under the breast because of reactivation of the chicken pox virus from nerves around this area. Typically, the rash will appear on the torso and wrap around the body in a ribbon-like way. In some cases, the rash can be on the breasts and affect the areola, the area around the nipples.

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Other Complications Of Shingles

If the shingles rash appears around the eye or forehead, it can cause eye infections and temporary or permanent loss of vision. If the shingles virus attacks the ear, people may develop hearing or balance problems. In rare cases, the shingles virus may attack the brain or spinal cord. These complications can often be prevented by beginning treatment for shingles as soon as possible.

Risk Factors For Shingles

Risk factors for getting shingles under the breast include:

• Age. Shingles can occur at any age, but its most common in people over 50.
• Weakened immune system. Conditions such as HIV/AIDS and cancer can weaken the immune system, making a person more prone to shingles.
• Radiation and chemotherapy. Treatment for cancer can leave you immunosuppressed, making shingles more likely to occur.
• Immunosuppression medication. If you have a transplanted organ such as a heart or kidney, the medications you take to avoid organ rejection may make you vulnerable to shingles. Steroids can also have this effect
• Stress. Living with stress for an extended period of time may negatively affect the immune system, increasing risk.

Its important not to scratch the rash. This can cause bacterial infections to form. To reduce itching, try oral or topical antihistamines.

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