What are the Treatments for Herpes Shingles?

Herpes zoster, which causes an itchy and painful rash, is also known as shingles, or herpes shingles. This skin problem can cause extreme discomfort. There is no comprehensive shingles treatment, but the many different symptoms caused by this condition can be treated individually, for optimum relief.

Causes

The blistered rash associated with shingles is the result of a previous chicken pox infection. Once chicken pox has cleared up, the virus, varicella zoster, remains in the body. The virus lies dormant in the roots of the nerves, along the spinal cord, waiting for an opportunity to re-emerge as a shingles outbreak. When the infected person becomes susceptible due to a decreased immune system, the virus travels up the nerve endings, and breaks out on the skin. Shingles is incurable, but the symptoms are both preventable and treatable.

Prevention

There are many potential causes of impaired immune function, which should be avoided in order to prevent shingles outbreaks. Stress, for example, can not only bring on a shingles outbreak, but it can prolong and intensify symptoms. Practicing yoga, meditation or other relaxation techniques, is an effective means of prevention and treatment. Maintaining good overall health ensures the strength of the immune system as well.

First Symptoms

The first symptoms of an outbreak may occur several days before the rash appears. These symptoms resemble the flu, but without a fever. Headaches can be treated with over-the-counter remedies, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Other early symptoms, such as dizziness and weakness can be treated with ample rest and relaxation.

Itch Relief

The itch associated with a shingles rash may also begin before the rash breaks out on the skin. It is important to relieve the itch without scratching, due to the risk of infection. Application of topical antihistamine ointments, or hydrocortisone creams, are means for relieving itching.

Pain Relief

The emerging blisters can cause extreme pain in a shingles sufferer. This pain can last even after the blisters have healed. Taking non-prescription pain relief medicines, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin can alleviate pain to some degree.

Multiple Symptoms

Cool, wet compresses with a mild solution of vinegar and water can be applied several times daily in order to relieve the pain and itch. Severe itching and pain can be relieved by soaking in a cool bath with either baking soda or finely ground oatmeal.