Answer:
Diabetes significantly increases the risk of shingles, especially for those over 50. Studies show that people with diabetes are 24-38% more likely to develop shingles than healthy individuals.
This increased risk is because diabetes treatment often involves medication to control blood sugar and reduce complications. However, these medications can suppress or disrupt the immune system, creating an environment where the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) can reactivate and cause shingles.
Walking is a simple, accessible exercise suitable for older adults. Studies have shown that regular walking, besides strengthening musculoskeletal health and promoting weight loss, also improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure and the risk of diabetes, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves sleep. The American Diabetes Association recommends at least 30 minutes of walking, or 10,000 steps, per day.
Therefore, you should incorporate daily walks to improve your physical health and reduce your risk of age-related illnesses, including diabetes and shingles. Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, getting enough sleep, and engaging in social activities can further boost your immune system and enhance your overall well-being.
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Walking helps with weight loss, strengthens bones and joints, and prevents diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. *Photo: Vecteezy* |
Shingles is a reactivation of the chickenpox virus, VZV. After a chickenpox infection, the VZV remains dormant in sensory nerve ganglia. It can reactivate under favorable conditions, such as in individuals over 50 with weakened immune systems or underlying chronic conditions like diabetes.
Shingles presents as an itchy, burning, or painful rash on one side of the body, sometimes accompanied by fever, fatigue, or headache. Without prompt treatment, it can lead to complications like postherpetic neuralgia (long-lasting nerve pain), pneumonia, meningitis, facial paralysis, and an increased risk of stroke.
A shingles vaccine, produced by GSK (Belgium), is available and highly effective. It offers up to 97% protection for individuals over 50 and 70-87% for those 18 and older with compromised immune systems. The vaccine also reduces the risk of postherpetic neuralgia and other complications by over 90%. The vaccination schedule consists of two doses administered 1-2 months apart.
At 65, you are in the high-risk group for shingles and eligible for the vaccine. If you're concerned about developing shingles, getting vaccinated as soon as possible is advisable. If you experience any symptoms, seek immediate medical attention to take advantage of the critical treatment window and prevent complications.
Doctor Bui Cong Su
Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System
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