Shingles Doctor in New York City
If you’re searching for a shingles doctor in NYC, Aglow Dermatology provides expert diagnosis and treatment of herpes zoster (shingles). It’s important to get help quickly if you suspect you have a zoster infection.
What Is Shingles?
Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in the body and can reactivate years later as shingles. The rash tends to start as tender or itchy blisters that erupt in a linear pattern starting from the back and which tends to stay on one side of the body (dermatomal).
Traditionally, shingles was most common in:
- Adults over age 50
- People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or those on immunosuppressive medications
Today, shingles is also appearing more often in younger adults under 50, even under 30. Learn more about why young people can also get shingles and how this may be connected to immunity patterns after the chickenpox vaccine.
Why See our Dermatologist for Shingles?
While many physicians can treat shingles, our dermatologist can provide specialized skin expertise. At Aglow Dermatology, we can:
- Confirm the diagnosis on examination or with a herpes zoster diagnostic test
- Identify shingles quickly to begin varicella zoster virus treatment
- Prevent and address complications like scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (especially important for patients with skin of color)
- Reduce the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) through early intervention
Learn more about our Medical Dermatology services and why seeing a dermatologist sooner can protect both your skin and long-term health.
Shingles Symptoms and Complications
The classic sign of shingles is a painful, blistering rash that usually appears on one side of the body or face. But complications can extend far beyond the rash:
- Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN): persistent nerve pain after the rash heals
- Scarring and pigmentation changes: especially post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Eye involvement that can threaten vision. This is considered an emergency.Â
- Neurological issues, such as meningitis or encephalitis (rare)
For patients of all ages, visiting a doctor for shingles quickly can dramatically reduce the severity of these complications.
Shingles Treatment Options
Shingles can resolve on it’s own, however, it can cause a lot of damage. Prompt treatment makes a big difference. At Aglow Dermatology, shingles care may include:
- Antiviral medications (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) — most effective when started within 72 hours of rash onset
- Corticosteroids in select cases to reduce inflammation and swelling
- Pain management to lower the risk of PHN
- Tailored skin care guidance to minimize scarring or pigmentation
Explore our Skin of Color Dermatology services to see how we address unique concerns for diverse skin types.
Shingles Vaccination Guidelines
Prevention is critical. The Shingrix vaccine is recommended by the CDC for:
- Adults 50 years and older
- Adults 19 years and older who are immunocompromised
Even if you’ve had shingles before, vaccination can help prevent future outbreaks. Learn more about how we incorporate preventive care into our comprehensive dermatology practice.
When to See a Shingles Specialist Near Me
You should see a shingles specialist if you:
- Notice a new painful, blistering rash
- Have shingles on your face or near your eyes
- Are immunocompromised
- Want to reduce risks of scarring or post-herpetic neuralgia
Expert Shingles Care in Manhattan
At Aglow Dermatology, we provide expert care for shingles and other viral skin conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms, schedule a consultation with a shingles doctor in New York City today.