How to Care for Shingles on Body
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you have had chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in your nerve tissue. Years later, the virus can reactivate and cause shingles.
Symptoms of Shingles
- Pain
- Rash
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Light sensitivity
Treatment for Shingles
There is no cure for shingles, but there are treatments that can help to relieve symptoms and speed up healing. These treatments include:
- Antiviral medications
- Pain relievers
- Calamine lotion
- Cool compresses
- Oatmeal baths
Prevention of Shingles
The best way to prevent shingles is to get the shingles vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for people who are 50 years of age or older and for people who have certain risk factors, such as a weakened immune system.
Home Remedies for Shingles
In addition to the treatments prescribed by your doctor, there are a number of home remedies that can help to relieve symptoms of shingles. These remedies include:
- Aloe vera
- Baking soda
- Chamomile
- Colloidal oatmeal
- Epsom salts
- Tea tree oil
- Witch hazel
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- A rash that is painful or itchy
- A fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Light sensitivity
Conclusion
Shingles is a painful, but treatable condition. By following these tips, you can help to relieve symptoms and speed up healing.
