Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Conventional Treatments for Shingles

No treatment has yet been discovered to prevent or halt shingles. Although steps can be taken to shorten the duration, the virus must simply run its course. Early medical attention may prevent or reduce the scarring that shingles can cause.

Medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and help you cope with the pain. Antiviral drugs may help stop progression of the rash.

Mild to moderate cases may be controlled with over-the-counter painkillers and self-help remedies.

For postherpetic neuralgia, a non- prescription cream containing capsaicin from hot red peppers provides relief for 75 percent of sufferers by anesthetizing the skin's surface.

See Your Medical Doctor When

	You suspect an outbreak is beginning; antiviral drugs taken in the early stages may shorten the course of the infection.
	Shingles on your face spreads near your eye; see an ophthalmologist immediately and get treatment to avoid possible cornea damage.
	Your skin is itchy, burning or blistering or has poxlike marks, especially near your eyes.
	The affected area becomes secondarily infected with bacteria (indicated by spreading redness, swelling, a high fever, and pus); antibiotics may be necessary to help halt the spread.
	Your pain is more than you can stand. Your doctor may prescribe a strong analgesic or a nerve block.
	The eruptions last longer than two weeks. In this case a doctor need to rule out possible underlying immune problem or cancer (particularly Hodgkin's disease). Also, treatment may be necessary to avoid potential nerve damage.

Next Topic: Folk Remedies/Common Sense Remedies for Shingles