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Shingles also known as herpes zolster - is a virus. It consists of a rash, which is made up of many blisters. It can be very painful. Rash develops on one side of the body. Shingles may remain for two and five weeks, in a few cases last a longer period. In childhood, this virus causes chickenpox. The chickenpox virus or varicella stays inactive in the body in the nerves controlling sensation. In about 20% cases, the virus becomes active after many years of staying inactive in the body. The virus then passed through the sensory nerve into the skin, giving rise to shingles. Most patients contacting shingles are above 60 years of age. Sometimes, it may also occur in younger people.
Shingles means belt or girdle. The rashes are distributed in the pattern of a broad belt. Though any body can contact Shingles, it is more likely to occur in people with lesser immunity like those having cancer, HIV, or organ transplant.
Symptoms of Shingles -
The patient can feel itching, tingling, burning, pain. In case these sensations are felt on the face, or near the eyes, medical help should be sought immediately. Along with these symptoms the other common symptoms of shingles are fever, shivering, headache, and itching. Within two to three days the patient experiences pain and a rash with red mouth and blisters are seen on the skin. Pus-is filled in the blisters. In some people pain persists long after the rash has gone.
The doctors would prescribe antiviral drugs and antibiotics, depending upon the gravity of the shingles. The dosage would again depend on the severity of the shingles. Painkillers may be prescribed with the antibiotics to reduce the pain.
A few natural remedies can be helpful for quick healing and relief in the pain –
- Calamine Lotion should be used over the infected area to ease the pain
- Clean the rash using 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar diluted with a cup of water.
- Cayenne pepper mixed with mild fragrance free body lotion, can help in easing away the pain.
- A paste of raw oatmeal and water works wonders to soothe the pain
- Blend a few drops of chamomile, lavender and tea tree oil in your bath water and bathe for 15-20 minutes.
- Bio-oil should be applied to relieve the pain and keep the affected area hydrated.
Home made remedies can surely be of great help in soothing away the pain. But in case you see rash on the nose, eye or face, consult your doctor immediately. It can lead to loss of sight in case the eye is infected with the virus. Do not scratch the rash. The infection can spread to other parts of the body. If the blisters are filled with pus, apply cool water compresses 4 to 5 times in a day. Stop using cool water compresses once the blisters get dried. Maintain personal hygiene. Bathe twice a day. Use clean towel. Do not share your personal hygiene items with any one.
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