If you are asking how many times can you get shingles, the answer is that it depends on the individual and how often the virus flares up. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a virus that lies dormant in the nerves of the spine. Once triggered, the virus causes painful skin rashes and fever with some people developing severe pain. The virus thrives in warm and moist environments, such as when a person is exposed to the sun or in the shower after using a swimming pool.
Most cases of shingles occur during the early months of life where the body is developing normally. However, some individuals may get the infection types at an earlier age. Your age will determine how long the virus stays in your nerves, which determines how often you get the infection. Some people develop symptoms for up to 10 years after the initial exposure.
How many times can you get shingles depends on your immune system and your body’s ability to fight the infection. Some people have a strong immune system that clears the virus on its own. Others need to take medication or take time to recover. If you are healthy and your immunity has been strong, you should be able to get rid of the virus on your own and avoid re-occurrence.
If you have been exposed to the virus and have not gone through treatment, you have a good chance of getting it again even later in life. VZV lives on your nerves, and you can get it anywhere. Since it is contagious, it can be spread by contact with an open sore, or from sharing items with others who have it.
Those who seem to have problems are often those who do not live in high-risk zones. The area where you live and work may be at risk, and you should avoid living and working in that area. If you feel you have to constantly travel to get to work, then that is a place where you may get shingles. When you ask how many times can you get shingles, this also will depend on where you are currently located and if you can go outdoors, as this will increase your chances of being exposed to the virus.
There are many home remedies that can help you get rid of the virus and avoid re-occurring. Vitamin C supplements taken daily are a great way to boost your immune system. Vitamin E oil taken in the form of a supplement is also effective in helping your body to get rid of the problem. Zinc is an important element when it comes to getting rid of shingles. Taking zinc supplements regularly will help to keep your body functioning properly and will make you less at risk for catching the virus again.
Other factors play into how many times can you get shingles. Having poor sleep habits or other health issues can often play a role. Other symptoms include extreme itching, a burning sensation when you itch, painful sex, nausea, pain when urinating, vomiting, and more. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor to make sure that there is nothing serious that is going on and to get the right treatment quickly.
How many times can you get shingles? Anywhere from one to four times is considered normal. The best thing you can do is figure out the causes of your outbreaks so that you can avoid them in the future. This will also make finding the right treatment much easier since you won’t have to deal with the side effects that come along with them. Make sure that you are following all of your doctor’s orders and that you know how to treat the flare-ups that you might experience so that you can get rid of them as quick as possible.