Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the virus that causes chickenpox. It is not directly caused by stress, but stress can weaken the immune system and make it more difficult for the body to fight off the virus, which can increase the risk of developing shingles.
People who are under significant stress or have weakened immune systems due to illness, medication, or other factors may be more likely to develop shingles. However, not everyone who experiences stress will develop shingles, and not everyone who develops shingles has experienced significant stress.
Other factors that can increase the risk of developing shingles include age, having had chickenpox before the age of one, and having a weakened immune system due to illness or medication. It is also more common in people over the age of 50.
