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Treating Shingles
Pain Relief Shingles
( 3 Aug 2010)
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Shingles is basically a viral infection of the nerves which is observed on account of being infected by the same virus that causes chicken pox. This virus is known as the herpes zoster virus. Singles is mostly observed in people who suffer from HIV, cancer or those who are well grown in years.
The shingles virus tends to usually remain dormant in the spine of the patient who has suffered from Chickenpox. In shingles the virus tends to get circulated through the nerve distribution of the skin. Once the virus is activated from its dormancy it moves along the sensory nerves and then goes to the skin where it tends to result in shingles. The band of shingles is usually observed in most people in only one side of the body. One of the main symptoms of shingles in the initial stages is bright red rashes which then become liquid filled blisters after a couple of days. This is also accompanied with a burning sensation which could be very painful. These blisters tend to dry or fall out after almost 14 days and hence should not be touched in order to avoid unnecessarily spreading the infection. Those suffering from shingles should avoid wearing tight or thick clothes and should follow a proper skin care routine. Pain relief from shingles can be achieved by placing an ice pack on the affected area which tends to provide some relief from the itching and burning sensation on a temporary basis. Pain relief from shingles could also be achieved by washing the area with a mild soap and water which will help in drying the blisters. After the wash, the individual should use a Q tip to apply some calamine lotion which also tends to ease the burning and itching sensation and provide some relief from the nerve pain. One of the triggers for shingles outbreak in individual is stress and hence most doctors will recommend a relaxation therapy to get pain relief from shingles. Such a therapy would include focused breathing, relaxation techniques, visualization and massages. Pain relief from shingles can also be derived from over the counter drugs or pain patches which may be used for mild pain. However, the doctors may also prescribe narcotics or anti-inflammatory drugs for prolonged or severe pain. Pain relief from shingles may also be gained by electronic nerve stimulation. In such a treatment electrodes are placed on the affected area and a current of electrical impulses is used to stimulate the nerve pathways.
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answered by G R on 3 Aug 2010, 12:26:29
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