What is Shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection that affects the nerves. It is caused by the same virus as chickenpox, and anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles. The symptoms of shingles can be very painful and debilitating, so it is important to know what to look for and how to get rid of shingles as soon as possible. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Shingles – from the symptoms to the treatments available to why you should never ignore this condition!
What are the first symptoms of Shingles?
The first symptoms of shingles are usually a burning or tingling sensation on one side of the body, followed by a rash. The rash will start as small red bumps and then turn into blisters. The pain from shingles can be so severe that it has been described as feeling like someone is stabbing you with a hot knife.
What other symptoms can I experience if I have Shingles?
Other symptoms of shingles can include fever, headache, chills, and upset stomach. The rash can also spread to other parts of the body if it is left untreated. In more severe cases, shingles can also lead to:
- Pneumonia
- Meningitis
- Encephalitis
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a lung infection that can be caused by a number of different viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Symptoms of pneumonia can include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, sweating, and fever. Pneumonia can be a serious illness, especially in young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the thin layer of tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can be caused by a number of different viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Symptoms of meningitis can include headache, fever, stiff neck, and confusion. Meningitis can be a serious illness, and can even lead to death if it is not treated promptly.
What is Encephalitis?
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain. Encephalitis can be caused by a number of different viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Symptoms of encephalitis can include headache, fever, seizures, and confusion. Encephalitis can be a serious illness, and can even lead to death if it is not treated promptly.
How soon should you tackle Shingles from your first symptoms?
You should see a doctor as soon as you experience any of the first symptoms of shingles. Early treatment is important in order to prevent the rash from spreading and to minimize the severity of the symptoms. There are a number of different shingles rash treatments available, and your doctor will be able to recommend the best course of treatment for you.
What are the treatments for Shingles?
There is no known cure for shingles, but there are a number of treatments available that can help to ease the symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness.
These treatments include:
- Antiviral medications
Acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir are some of these medications.
- Topical creams or ointments
There are a variety of topical treatments, including topical acyclovir 5% cream or ointments available as shingles rash treatment.
- Pain relievers
Over-the-counter pain medicine like acetaminophen. (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin) can help ease the pain. A liquid medicine that you put on your skin (Domeboro) can help cool the rash and stop the itching.
- Corticosteroids
This is a type of anti-inflammatory drug. They are typically used to help with rheumatologic diseases. Orally administered corticosteroids are commonly used in the treatment of the Shingles.
What are the side effects of Shingles treatments?
The most common side effect of antiviral medications is nausea. Other possible side effects include headache, dizziness, and fatigue.
Corticosteroids can cause a number of different side effects, including weight gain, increased appetite, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping. Topical creams or ointments can cause skin irritation.
It is important to talk to your doctor about any potential side effects of the treatments for shingles before starting treatment.
What can I do to prevent Shingles?
The best way to prevent shingles is to get the shingles vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for people over the age of 50. The shingles vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can greatly reduce your risk of developing shingles. You should talk to your doctor about whether or not the shingles vaccine is right for you.
What types of Shingles vaccines are available?
There are two types of shingles vaccines available: live attenuated vaccine (Zostavax) and recombinant vaccine (Shingrix). Both vaccines are given as a single shot. The live attenuated vaccine is given as a single dose, while the recombinant vaccine is given in two doses, spaced two to six months apart.
Conclusion
Shingles is a serious illness that can cause severe pain and discomfort. Early treatment is important in order to minimize the severity of the symptoms. There are a number of different treatments available for shingles, and your doctor will be able to recommend the best course of treatment for you. The best way to prevent shingles is to get the shingles vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for people over the age of 50.
The shingles vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can greatly reduce your risk of developing shingles. You should talk to your doctor about whether or not the shingles vaccine is right for you.