How to Treat the Pain Associated With Shingles on the Face
Shingles is a virus that is also known as herpes zoster. It is very painful, and the virus affects the nerves. This virus causes redness and blisters. Shingles can also affect the face and eye area. The pain can make it difficult to eat and see. Even after the blisters and rash disappear, pain can still persist. You must see your doctor for a medical evaluation before treatment can begin. There are things that you can do to make you more comfortable when you have shingles on the face.
Instructions
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Visit your physician. Your doctor will need to examine your shingles to determine what treatment plan is appropriate for you. Shingles is very painful, so your treatment plan may include both oral medications and topical medications. Topical medications are creams that are applied directly to the skin.
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Ask about antiviral medication. Since shingles is a virus, this medication may be effective in clearing the virus and lessening your pain. Ask your doctor if antiviral medication is appropriate for you.
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Inquire about oral corticosteroid medication. These medication can decrease the inflammatory process which is present during a shingles outbreak. These medications can reduce the pain and swelling on the face and can be effective if the shingles is affecting the eye area.
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Take pain medication. If your pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe opioid based pain medication. If your pain is mild to moderate, you may take an over the counter pain relief medication. Make sure you check with your doctor before you take any medication for shingles.
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Try calamine lotion. Calamine lotion can be soothing and is gentle to use on your face. It will help calm the shingles rash, and will help quell the itching that often accompanies the shingles blisters. Calamine may also help dry up the blisters that will form. Calamine lotion is gentle enough so that if you get it in your eyes, it will not cause harm.
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Use topical capsaicin cream. Capsaicin is what makes chilies hot. It is effective in relieving pain and is very effective in the treatment of pain associated with shingles on the face. Be careful not to get the cream into your eyes because it will burn your eyes.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wash your hands thoroughly after using capsaicin cream. Trace amounts left on your hands may irritate your eyes or mouth if your hands come in contact with them
If shingles on your face is near your eyes and is affecting your vision, see your doctor right away. Quick medical treatment may prevent permanent eye damage.
