Shingles is a painful condition, for which there is no cure. It is caused by the same virus that causes Chicken Pox.Most people who have this condition will have a rash or blisters with burning, itching and even numbness, which is characteristic of the disease. It can also cause headache, a fever, a feeling of tiredness, and even a sensitivity to light. While nothing will make it go away immediately, there are option for shingles rash treatment that can help alleviate the pain, itching and discomfort, and also help prevent it from becoming infected.
Taking a cool oatmeal bath is a simple remedy. Oatmeal has soothing properties that will temporarily reduce itching, and it is a product that is inexpensive and found in most households. Use an old sock or nylon and fill it halfway with oatmeal, then tie it closed. It can be left to float in the bath, or lightly rubbed on the itchy and inflamed areas for relief. Putting the loose oatmeal in the bath will make a mess and can clog the drain, and is not recommended.
Topical creams and oral pain relievers may also be effective against pain and discomfort. To be sure that the recommended dosage is not exceeded, be sure to carefully read the labels, especially if they are taken at the same time. If unsure, enlist the help of a doctor or pharmacist.
Antiviral medication can be prescribed that may help shingles to clear up more quickly. This must be ordered by a physician. It's always a good idea to keep track of symptoms and go to the doctor as soon as they are noticed. This medication is most effective when taken within the first three days of the onset. The sooner this medication is started the better the outcome and the likelihood that it can shorten the course.
Numbing agents contained in a cream that is applied topically to the affected area can help alleviate pain and reduce itchiness and stinging. These are available both by prescription as well as over the counter. Some may be combined with an anti-inflammatory medication and this may bring further relief by preventing the area from swelling.
Many people find that even wearing clothing over the affected areas is unbearable. Ensuring that clothing is loose, and made with soft, natural fibers can be more comfortable. If able, leaving the rash uncovered can help dry out blisters and reduce irritation from clothing.
If the rash is especially itchy, medications that contain an antihistamine may bring relief in that they are able to help reduce itching and swelling. These are available either over the counter or by prescription.
Because there is no cure, the focus for treating this virus must be on making the patient as comfortable as possible. It is always sound advice to talk to a doctor before taking any medications, and to discuss any that are already being taken, to ensure that there is no risk of making things worse. Being in control and reducing pain, itchiness, and other uncomfortable symptoms can go a long way to making shingles more bearable.
Taking a cool oatmeal bath is a simple remedy. Oatmeal has soothing properties that will temporarily reduce itching, and it is a product that is inexpensive and found in most households. Use an old sock or nylon and fill it halfway with oatmeal, then tie it closed. It can be left to float in the bath, or lightly rubbed on the itchy and inflamed areas for relief. Putting the loose oatmeal in the bath will make a mess and can clog the drain, and is not recommended.
Topical creams and oral pain relievers may also be effective against pain and discomfort. To be sure that the recommended dosage is not exceeded, be sure to carefully read the labels, especially if they are taken at the same time. If unsure, enlist the help of a doctor or pharmacist.
Antiviral medication can be prescribed that may help shingles to clear up more quickly. This must be ordered by a physician. It's always a good idea to keep track of symptoms and go to the doctor as soon as they are noticed. This medication is most effective when taken within the first three days of the onset. The sooner this medication is started the better the outcome and the likelihood that it can shorten the course.
Numbing agents contained in a cream that is applied topically to the affected area can help alleviate pain and reduce itchiness and stinging. These are available both by prescription as well as over the counter. Some may be combined with an anti-inflammatory medication and this may bring further relief by preventing the area from swelling.
Many people find that even wearing clothing over the affected areas is unbearable. Ensuring that clothing is loose, and made with soft, natural fibers can be more comfortable. If able, leaving the rash uncovered can help dry out blisters and reduce irritation from clothing.
If the rash is especially itchy, medications that contain an antihistamine may bring relief in that they are able to help reduce itching and swelling. These are available either over the counter or by prescription.
Because there is no cure, the focus for treating this virus must be on making the patient as comfortable as possible. It is always sound advice to talk to a doctor before taking any medications, and to discuss any that are already being taken, to ensure that there is no risk of making things worse. Being in control and reducing pain, itchiness, and other uncomfortable symptoms can go a long way to making shingles more bearable.
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