Science shows that shingles outbreaks are caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. This virus is known as varicella zoster virus, which is commonly referred to as VZV. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant (inactive) in the body. For reasons that are not always fully known, the virus can reactivate years later, causing shingles.
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a painful rash that develops on the face or body. The rash forms blisters that typically scab over in 7 to 10 days and then clears up within 2 to 4 weeks. According to the Centers for Disease Control, about half of all shingles cases occur in men and women 60 years old or older.
Can Shingles Develop as a Result of Trauma?
Although Shingles most often occurs in elderly patients who suffer from chronic diseases and immunosuppression, some studies have shown there may be a direct connection with physical trauma and shingles outbreaks within the younger population. In fact, a report published by the Journal of Infectious Disease determined that there is a 340% increased risk for shingles outbreaks after physical trauma occurs and a near 28 times higher risk for shingles outbreaks following trauma to the head. In addition, various studies that date as far back as the 1970’s show that shingles outbreaks have developed as a result of trauma.
How Can Car Accidents Be Related to the Development of Shingles?
Due to this connection, there is also a strong association between stressful events, like car accidents, and the risk of shingles outbreaks. In fact, the British Medical Journal reports that post-traumatic stress (PTSD) has been independently associated with a two-fold increase in the risk of a shingles outbreak. Anecdotally, our team at Suzuki Law Offices has seen numerous shingles outbreaks reported in our personal injury practice with clients who are in their 20’s and 30’s and have no other risk factors for such an outbreak.
Have You Developed Shingles Following a Car Accident?
If you were injured in an accident and developed a shingles outbreak as a result, contact our Phoenix personal injury lawyers at Suzuki Law Offices, L.L.C. right away. At our firm, our team works diligently to attain the best results for our clients. Because we understand an accident can affect a victim’s life forever, we do our best to obtain maximum monetary compensation in the shortest amount of time possible. If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident or vehicle collision, contact our team right away!
Discuss your case today by calling a Phoenix car accident attorney from our firm. We cannot wait to put aggressive defense on your side of the courtroom.