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Shingles is a
painful condition caused by the
herpes zoster
virus, in which a line-like rash develops around the body.
What to look for
slight fever, chills,
upset stomach.
pain and tenderness
usually on one side of your face or body.
tingling, itching, or
prickling skin followed by an inflamed red rash.
blisters.
deep burning, aching, or
stabbing pain, which may be continuous or intermittent.
Shingles can last for
several weeks. However, it usually only occurs once.
The pain can continue for
months or even years in rare cases.
Causes
The same virus that causes chickenpox, causes shingles- herpes zoster. People who have had
chickenpox are immune to this virus again unless their immune system is adversely affected
by a serious illness or
stress or trauma. It can occur in some
people and not in others.
Traditional Treatment
Treatment can only relieve
the symptoms, it cannot halt the disease. Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate
medications for you.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
There are various
natural
treatments available to you.
Herbal
Therapies - Dabbing or sponging lesions with a solution of
lemon balm or
calendula
may reduce inflammation. You can also try three daily applications of a commercially
prepared gel made from an extract of
liquorice, which
appears to interfere with virus growth. Dabbing or sponging lesions with a solution of lemon balm or
calendula
may reduce inflammation. You can also try three daily applications of a commercially
prepared gel made from an extract of
liquorice, which
appears to interfere with virus growth.
Another very
popular ointment is one based on
St. John’s wort.
Taking
goldenseal, vervain and Echinacea also helps strengthen the immune system.
Dietary
Considerations
Supplements of
Vitamin A, B complex, Magnesium, Zinc are often helpful
(See our Vitamins Section). To alleviate
symptoms once the disease has begun, take the amino acid L-lysine, but only for one week.
Studies have shown that this works best if you avoid foods containing the amino acid
arginine, such as chocolate, cereal grains, nuts, and seeds.
Personal Care
Keep the affected area
clean, dry, and exposed to air.
Do not scratch or pick
blisters.
Calamine lotion helps
relieve itching.
Vitamin E oil, gel from the Aloe Vera plant will soothe the skin as well.
When to seek further
professional advice
you suspect an outbreak
is beginning.
if you get shingles on
your face.
the affected area
re-infected with bacteria.
your rash lasts longer
than 10 days without improvement.
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