“The Pain Was Unbearable”: Doctors Warn Seniors About a Rise in Shingles Cases

Doctors are raising concerns as more adults over 60 report painful cases of Shingles, a condition that can strike suddenly and leave lasting discomfort. What often begins as mild tingling, itching, or burning on one side of the body can quickly develop into a blistering rash that causes intense nerve pain.

Many patients say they initially mistook the early signs for a minor skin irritation — until the pain became impossible to ignore.

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox, sometimes decades after a person first had it. As the immune system naturally weakens with age, the virus can awaken and travel along nerve pathways, leading to inflammation and severe sensitivity. Experts note that people over 60 are at the highest risk, and the condition can become especially aggressive in seniors.

For some individuals, the physical rash fades within weeks — but the pain does not. A complication known as postherpetic neuralgia can cause stabbing or burning sensations that last for months, even years. Doctors describe this lingering nerve pain as one of the most challenging aspects of shingles, significantly affecting sleep, mobility, and overall quality of life.

Health professionals stress that early treatment is critical. Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if taken within the first few days of the rash appearing. That’s why experts urge older adults not to ignore unexplained pain or unusual skin changes, especially if they occur on one side of the body.

While shingles can be frightening and extremely painful, doctors emphasize that awareness and preventive measures — including vaccination — can significantly reduce risk. As cases continue to surface among seniors, medical professionals encourage families to talk openly about symptoms and seek medical advice promptly. Early action can make a meaningful difference in recovery and long-term comfort.