Can shingles recur after it has healed?
Disease description:
I had shingles two years ago, which has since healed. Now I feel like it might be recurring again. May I ask if shingles can recur after recovery?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Qingyun
Shingles can recur even after recovery. This is because shingles is caused by a virus that can remain dormant in the body for a long time; even with prompt and proper treatment, the virus cannot be completely eliminated. Therefore, when a patient's immune system weakens, the virus may become reactivated, leading to a recurrence of shingles. Thus, even after full recovery, shingles may reappear if the body's resistance decreases. To prevent recurrence, patients should maintain healthy lifestyle habits, eat more vegetables and fruits, exercise regularly, ensure adequate sleep, and minimize mental stress. These measures can strengthen the immune system and reduce the likelihood of shingles recurrence.
