“Bone infection?”
I have osteomyelitis in my spine and now I think I have shingles on my back, will shingles affect the bone infection?
Female | 36 years old
Complaint duration: Days
Medications: I take a lot but don’t have the list with me
Conditions: High blood pressure and more
5 Answers
OrthopaedicSurgeonOrthopaedicSurgeon
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles typically affects the skin in a localized area, causing a painful rash and blisters.
While shingles can be uncomfortable and painful, it is unlikely to directly affect or worsen a pre-existing bone infection (osteomyelitis) in the spine. Shingles primarily affects the nerves and skin, while osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone itself.
However, it's important to keep in mind that any significant illness or infections can potentially impact the overall health and well-being of the body, including the immune system. If you have a pre-existing bone infection, it's essential to prioritize your overall health and diligently follow your healthcare provider's instructions for managing the osteomyelitis.
If you suspect you have shingles on your back, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate management. They can evaluate your symptoms, provide treatment options, and address any concerns you may have regarding the coexistence of shingles with your pre-existing osteomyelitis.
Please reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your specific medical history and current condition. They can provide the most accurate and individualized guidance to address your concerns effectively.
While shingles can be uncomfortable and painful, it is unlikely to directly affect or worsen a pre-existing bone infection (osteomyelitis) in the spine. Shingles primarily affects the nerves and skin, while osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone itself.
However, it's important to keep in mind that any significant illness or infections can potentially impact the overall health and well-being of the body, including the immune system. If you have a pre-existing bone infection, it's essential to prioritize your overall health and diligently follow your healthcare provider's instructions for managing the osteomyelitis.
If you suspect you have shingles on your back, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate management. They can evaluate your symptoms, provide treatment options, and address any concerns you may have regarding the coexistence of shingles with your pre-existing osteomyelitis.
Please reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your specific medical history and current condition. They can provide the most accurate and individualized guidance to address your concerns effectively.
Typically shingles will break out and run its course, unless there is a secondary bacterial skin infection
You should ask your doctors about the shingles vaccine
You should ask your doctors about the shingles vaccine
Hello and thank you for your question. It is rare for shingles ( herpes zoster viral infection) to affect osteomyelitis. A search of the literature demonstrates that there are a few cases where shingles can affect bone infection of the jaw. I find no other citations where shingles have affected other joints.
Not sure. But any stress to the nervous system can trigger shingles.
Sorry you have osteomyelitis. Shingles will make it all that much worse, I hate to hear your dealing with that too. Having to deal with both at the same time. Your Medical Doctor will have some remedies for you. Please contact your M.D. right away for help.
