Shingles, a viral infection, can cause chest pain. This discomfort arises from the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox, which reactivates in the body years after the initial infection.
Understanding Shingles
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. After chickenpox, this virus remains inactive in nerve cells. It can reactivate later in life, traveling along nerve pathways to the skin and causing the characteristic shingles rash.
Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, though it is most common in individuals over 50. The risk of reactivation increases with age as the immune system weakens. People with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or certain treatments also face a higher risk.
How Shingles Causes Chest Pain
Shingles causes chest pain by affecting nerves in that region. The varicella-zoster virus travels along specific nerve pathways, such as the intercostal nerves between the ribs. This viral activity inflames and damages these nerves, resulting in pain.
The chest pain is often described as sharp, burning, tingling, or aching. It occurs on one side of the chest, corresponding to the affected nerve. This discomfort can precede the characteristic rash by several days.
Other Key Shingles Symptoms
Beyond chest pain, shingles is recognized by a distinctive rash. This rash usually appears a few days after the initial pain or tingling. It forms a single stripe of fluid-filled blisters, often on one side of the torso, face, or other body parts. The blisters break open, crust over, and scab, typically clearing within two to four weeks.
Other symptoms can accompany the rash and pain, including itching, tingling, or increased sensitivity to touch. Some individuals may also experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, chills, and fatigue.
When to Seek Medical Help for Chest Pain
Any new or severe chest pain should be evaluated promptly by a medical professional. While shingles can cause chest pain, other serious conditions like a heart attack or lung issues can present with similar symptoms. Consult a doctor if you suspect shingles, especially with chest pain. Early diagnosis and treatment with antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Seek immediate medical attention if chest pain is accompanied by symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness, or pain that spreads to the arms, neck, or jaw.