Learn What to Expect When You Have Shingles

Taking care of shingles symptoms

People can make various efforts to alleviate their symptoms and lessen discomfort and seek medical therapy. These are some examples:

 
  • obtaining enough rest and sleep
  • applying a damp compress to itchy, irritated skin and blisters
  • Stress reduction can be accomplished through a healthy lifestyle, meditation, and deep breathing techniques.
  • wearing loose-fitting natural fiber garments, such as cotton
  • bathing with oatmeal and putting calamine lotion on the skin
  • Scratching the rash and blisters should be avoided as much as possible. Infection and other issues might result from breaking the skin or popping the blisters.

Is the shingles virus contagious?

Shingles are not contagious and are caused by the reactivation of an already present virus in the body.

On the other hand, a person with shingles can transmit chickenpox to someone who has never had the VZV virus.

As a result, those suffering from shingles should avoid contact with those who have never had chickenpox until their rash has healed entirely. Someone must come into direct touch with the rash to contract the virus.

People who have shingles should do the following to avoid spreading VZV:

  • Avoid close contact with those who have never had chickenpox or been immunized against it.
  • Avoid close contact with low-birth-weight newborns and anyone with weakened immune systems, such as those taking HIV treatment or undergoing organ transplantation.
  • Cover it with loose, natural clothing to avoid others coming into contact with the rash.
  • They should often wash their hands after touching the rash or putting lotion on their skin.

Getting a Shingles Vaccine

People over the age of 50 should get a shingles immunization.

 

A vaccine is available to lower the risk of developing shingles and long-term consequences like PHN.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Reliable Source advises that adults aged 50 and over receive two doses of the Shingrex vaccine over a two to six month period. It is thought to be more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and PHN.

People who have already had shingles can get the vaccine to prevent it from happening again.

Takeaway

Shingles impact up to one-third of the population in the United States. The severity and duration of symptoms vary. Early intervention is critical in lowering symptoms and avoiding complications such as PHN.

As a result, people should seek medical attention as soon as possible if they experience increased skin sensitivity or develop a rash or blisters. When combined with medical care, several home remedies can help relieve shingle symptoms.

People should think about getting a shingles vaccination to lower their chances of getting shingles and experiencing long-term nerve discomfort.