Treatments
How to Treat Shingles with Conventional and Alternative Procedures
Shingles refer to a painful skin rash caused by the virus varicella zoster. It is also known as herpes zoster. This is most common in older people who do not have strong immune systems due to injury, stress, medicines, etc. It is a rare phenomenon for anybody to get shingles multiple times since most people get it only once. Shingles last from two to six weeks. It is true that there is no cure for shingles but it can be treated, and prompt treatment can speed up the healing process as well as reduce the risk of complications. Some of the medications to treat shingles include: Valacyclovir (Valtrex) Acyclovir (Zovirax) Famciclovir (Famvir) Since shingles accompany pain, the doctor may also suggest you the following: Anticonvulsants like gabapentin (Neurontin) Capsaicin cream Numbing agents, like lidocaine- delivered through a cream, gel, skin patch, spray Tricyclic antidepressants, like amitriptyline Injection that includes corticosteroids as well as local anesthetics Medications containing narcotics, like codeine Home Remedies and Lifestyle There are several home remedies and lifestyle changes to consider to get relief from shingles. Healing Baths Clean the blisters every day to avoid the possibility of spreading the contagion. Take a cool shower to soothe the skin.