Diabetes Increases Risk of Shingles and Complications

The varicella-zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox, remains dormant in the body and can reactivate as shingles, a condition that can lead to painful rashes and complications. Those diagnosed with diabetes—both Type 1 and Type 2—face a significantly heightened risk of developing shingles and its associated complications compared to individuals without the condition.

According to research, individuals with diabetes are more than twice as likely to contract shingles. Additionally, they are over three times more likely to be hospitalised due to shingles and its complications. The impact of shingles can be severe, potentially leading to post-herpetic neuralgia (long-term nerve pain), bacterial skin infections, and high fever.

Understanding the Connection Between Diabetes and Shingles

Dr. Bee Yong Mong, president of Diabetes Singapore, highlights that managing diabetes involves significant daily demands. These include monitoring blood glucose levels, adhering to prescribed medications, and fitting in regular meals. Given these challenges, it becomes crucial for individuals with diabetes to recognise their elevated risk for shingles and its potential complications.

The upcoming World Diabetes Day on November 14, 2023, focuses on the intersection of diabetes and workplace health. Dr. Bee emphasises that people with diabetes may need more medical leave due to their increased risk of infections and slower recovery times. This can lead to misunderstandings at work, fostering perceptions of unreliability.

Diabetes also causes low-grade inflammation, disrupting the body’s natural defences and slowing healing processes. Dr. Bee explains that high blood sugar levels can impair the function of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections. This weakened immune response can make it more challenging for individuals living with diabetes to combat viral infections like shingles.

Strategies for Prevention and Management

Once shingles occurs, managing diabetes can become even more complex. Dr. Bee notes that the pain associated with shingles, along with stress hormones triggered by the infection and additional medications, can complicate diabetes management. “All this may lead to poor glycaemic control,” he states. Inflammation triggered by viral infections has also been linked to insulin resistance, further complicating the condition.

Preventing shingles should be an integral part of diabetes care. Dr. Bee recommends maintaining healthy routines that include a balanced diet low in added sugars and refined carbohydrates, regular exercise, stress reduction, sufficient sleep, and avoiding smoking and alcohol. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, daily foot checks, and proper oral care, can also lower infection risks.

He emphasises the importance of consistent blood glucose monitoring, adherence to prescribed medications, and regular check-ups with healthcare professionals. “It is far easier to prevent shingles than to cope with its pain and complications,” Dr. Bee advises.

To raise awareness, the 11.11 Shingles Consultation Day encourages individuals with diabetes or those aged 50 and above to consult healthcare professionals regarding preventive measures against shingles.

This health information is primarily aimed at audiences in Singapore and serves educational purposes only. It does not endorse or recommend any specific products. It is advisable to consult healthcare professionals for more details regarding shingles, treatment options, and prevention methods. All information is accurate as of November 7, 2023.