Shingles, a disease caused by the same virus as Chicken Pox, is most often accompanied by a rash. It can cause itching and a burning pain and may result in blisters that can leave behind scars, especially if not treated to reduce the itchiness. Other symptoms can include fever and headache, fatigue, and, in some people, a sensitivity to light. While there is no cure for shingles, there are shingles rash treatment options that can help alleviate symptoms.
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.
Pain can also be alleviated with over the counter medications such as oral analgesics and topical pain creams. It is important to ensure that, if taking the two at the same time, that their combination is not more than the recommended dosage. If in doubt, carefully read the label or take them to a pharmacist or doctor for clarification.
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.
Topical creams that contain an agent that causes numbing can also help keep shingles patients more comfortable. Some of these are available over the counter, others must be via prescription. It may also help to ask for an anti-inflammatory cream to alleviate the rash.
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.
Taking an antihistamine may be of aid in that it can reduce itchiness. Scratching the rash can increase pain, swelling and the likelihood of scarring. Over the counter options are available or it can be obtained through prescription by a doctor.
While shingles does not have a cure, using some of these simple remedies may help shorten the duration, reduce pain and itching, and make it easier to get through until it disappears. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist for advice, especially when considering taking more then one medication at once, and even more urgently if you were already on medications prior to getting shingles, as some may cause it to worsen.
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.
Pain can also be alleviated with over the counter medications such as oral analgesics and topical pain creams. It is important to ensure that, if taking the two at the same time, that their combination is not more than the recommended dosage. If in doubt, carefully read the label or take them to a pharmacist or doctor for clarification.
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.
Topical creams that contain an agent that causes numbing can also help keep shingles patients more comfortable. Some of these are available over the counter, others must be via prescription. It may also help to ask for an anti-inflammatory cream to alleviate the rash.
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.
Taking an antihistamine may be of aid in that it can reduce itchiness. Scratching the rash can increase pain, swelling and the likelihood of scarring. Over the counter options are available or it can be obtained through prescription by a doctor.
While shingles does not have a cure, using some of these simple remedies may help shorten the duration, reduce pain and itching, and make it easier to get through until it disappears. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist for advice, especially when considering taking more then one medication at once, and even more urgently if you were already on medications prior to getting shingles, as some may cause it to worsen.
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