Heritage Manor News: Causes and signs of shingles

Skin disorders are not uncommon in the elderly. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Shingles is a skin infection caused by the virus that causes chicken pox. It most often occurs in individuals between the ages of 50-70. It occurs only in people who have previously been infected with the chicken pox virus. This virus can lie dormant in a nerve and be reactivated years later. It can be caused by stress or age-related changes in the immune system. Signs and symptoms of shingles can occur days before the rash appears. Symptoms include deep pain in affected areas, numbness, itching or extreme sensitivity to touch. Other symptoms include fatigue, headache and flu-like aches and pains. It begins with a cluster of red bumps and is usually limited to the area of the trunk. It can last for months or even years. Treatment should be initiated within 72 hours after the rash appears. If started early, treatment can shorten the course.
Activities this week include pokeno, food committee meeting, group therapy, morning stretch, in-room visits, rosary, domino games, jingo, rosary led by St. Joseph Catholic Church, social reading, resident birthday party and Come Lord Jesus group.
The staff of Heritage Manor wishes a Happy Birthday this week to Barbara Ardoin, Joseph Bourque, Harold Fontenot and Andree LeBas.
The staff of Heritage Manor extends its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Lou Claudia Fontenot. She will be missed by us all.
The staff of Heritage Manor welcomes Mercedes Lafleur to the facility.
Winners of the pumpkin carving contest were Sherina Gallow, most original, first place; Todd Thompson, most creative, second place; and Dawn Roelle, most adorable, third place.