Herpes zoster is quite a common condition in people over 50 years of age. It is reported that 1 in 3 adults over 50 years have developed shingles at least once in their lifetime. You are at risk of developing shingles if you have suffered from chickenpox before. Herpes zoster is very easy to identify. It is characteristic of herpes zoster to present with painful, blistering skin rash that is usually confined on a specific area on a specific side of the body.
It is best to seek medical treatment when you think you have developed shingles, especially if the rash is near your eyes. However, there are a few things you can do at home to help soothe and calm your problem. Do not scratch your itch. Scratching is possibly one of the worst things you can do when you are suffering from shingles. It leads to deeper scarring and exposes your blisters to secondary infection. If you cannot control yourself, get over-the-counter (OTC) medications to help you. Antihistamines and topical numbing creams may help with the itchiness. To help dry the blisters and prevent secondary bacterial infection, it is advised that you do cool tap water compresses for about 15 to 20 minutes several times a day. This helps to soothe the rash and blisters and also help in removing the scabs that are forming. Be sure to do this alone if possible as open, weeping blisters are contagious. Discard the water and make sure the washcloth is thoroughly rinsed and washed before the next use.
Take cool showers to help ease your pain and reduce the chances of sneaky bacterias infecting your blisters. Some studies have shown that taking oat baths reduces inflammation on the skin and moistens dry skin. This can help you with the pain and itchiness that comes with herpes zoster. Try looking for colloidal oats; these products usually have the proteins that causes allergy removed from the oats. Always patch try on your skin before using it entirely. Using petroleum jelly on your rash may aid in faster relief. If you have to be out and about, try keeping your rash covered with clothing, so as to not spread the germs to everyone else around you and if possible, wear something that is loose and comfortable. This would avoid unnecessary contact of the rash with harsh fabrics. Up your food game. A weakened immune system worsens the intensity of shingles. Be sure to consume food rich in vitamins A, B12, C and E. Oranges, leafy green vegetables, red meat, dairies, chicken, fish and whole grains can promote healing naturally. Avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar and saturated fats. Stress has been a known risk factor for developing and aggravating shingles. Try getting a good night’s sleep and rest up during the attack. Keep your mind off the pain. Talk to a friend, pick up a book or watch a movie at home. These are essentially small steps that may help improve your quality of life.
Herpes zoster usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks to completely subside. It may leave a little scar at the area that was affected. These home remedies are simple measures you can do to allay your suffering. These home remedies doesn not treat shingles, they are merely just to control your symptoms. Seeing a doctor for your infection is vital. Stick to the advice and medications given to facilitate your recovery.
Read about herpes zoster answers by Doctor On Call on their website for more information.