How to Treat a Shingles Itch
Herpes zoster, or shingles, is a viral infection of the chicken pox family. This infection usually affects individuals over the age of 50, according to the National Institute on Aging. Younger individuals can get the virus as well, although it isn't as common. Shingles creates a highly sensitized, itchy skin surface that affects the back to the ribcage and onto the chest. Some individuals can also get shingles on the face, neck and throat. Shingles usually creates a raised, blistered rash after the initial skin sensitivity and itching stage. Since shingles affects the nerves, itching and pain at the skin level are common. Shingles can be intensely painful--the itch can actually feel as painful as an injury. There are ways to treat a shingles itch that can increase the comfort of the patient.
Things You'll Need
- Cornstarch
- Oatmeal bath
- Hydrocortisone cream (1 percent)
- Calamine lotion
- White vinegar
- Washcloths
- Prescription steroids
- Prescription antiviral medication
- Over-the-counter antihistamines
Instructions
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How to Treat a Shingles Itch
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Pour 2 cups of cornstarch under the faucet of the tub while it's filling with lukewarm water. Soak in the tub for 15 to 20 minutes to help alleviate itching. Try soaking multiple times each day to help soothe both the pain and itching of the shingles. Cornstarch will also help heal open blisters and sores.
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2
Alternate the cornstarch soak with an oatmeal bath such as Aveeno. Oatmeal naturally helps relieve itching skin and will also help heal irritated skin.
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3
Apply hydrocortisone cream to your skin after your bath or when plagued by an episode of intense itching. Make sure to follow package directions for frequency of application.
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4
Use a soft cloth to smooth calamine anti-itch lotion onto your skin a few times each day. The familiar pink lotion works to help control itching from shingles.
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5
Soak washcloths in white vinegar and apply these compresses directly to the itchy areas of your skin for five to 10 minutes. Let the vinegar dry on the skin or, if your prefer, apply cool water compresses after applying the vinegar compresses.
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6
Reduce stress and tension while you are sick. Stress aggravates the shingles condition by weakening the immune system. Give yourself time to recover from this debilitating illness.
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7
Take over-the-counter antihistamines such as Benadryl to help control itching. Consult your doctor before taking this medication.
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Take any prescribed medications such as steroids and antiviral drugs as prescribed to help reduce itching and combat the original shingles illness.
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