Does shingles contribute to the risk factors for stroke?

Hi,

Thank you for reaching out to StrokeLine at the Stroke Foundation of Australia via Ask a Health Professional. I am sorry to hear about your stroke, not long after you were diagnosed with shingles.

To answer your question if shingles contributes to the risk factors for stroke, research does seem to indicate that shingles (especially around the eyes) increases stroke risk most in the short term. Although the risk does seem to be highest in the first month, there is other research that supports the notion that it also leads to a long-term risk. There are also studies which showed a reduction in stroke risk from those who'd had the shingles vaccine, further suggesting that the infection is a factor. As for how it causes a stroke, there has been some mention that the virus can infect blood vessels. However, there was also a study that found "prothrombotic exosomes" in blood samples from people who'd had shingles. Exosomes are little parcels of genetic and other material that travel between cells, and the exosomes in these people were found to be able to cause blood clots.

Currently, the main recommendation appears to be to get the vaccine to prevent getting shingles. However, what's less clear from all the studies is whether there should be any treatment after shingles to prevent a stroke. It’s best to talk with your doctor or specialist as well, for more specific information based on your own health/medical history and other stroke risk factors and management of these to further prevent your stroke risk.

If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us on StrokeLine 1800 787 653 or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEST. 

Wishing you all the best,

Bec - StrokeLine