How to Care for Yourself During a Case of Shingles



Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It can cause a burning sensation and an itchy rash with blisters. While shingles can be uncomfortable, there are steps you can take to help care for yourself during an outbreak.

1. Get plenty of rest: When you're suffering from shingles, it's important to make sure you're getting enough rest. Make sure to avoid activities that require physical or mental exertion, as this will only worsen your condition. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night and take naps throughout the day if needed.

2. Take medication: Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications such as acyclovir or valacyclovir in order to reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms. It's important that you follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking these medications in order for them to be effective in treating your shingles outbreak.

3. Stay cool: Heat can aggravate the itching associated with shingles, so it's best to stay cool when possible by avoiding activities that may increase body temperature such as exercising or taking hot baths/showers while in the midst of a flare-up.

4. Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing should be avoided when dealing with shingles since they can irritate the skin further and worsen symptoms such as itching and burning sensations on affected areas of skin. Wear loose fitting clothes made out of breathable fabrics like cotton instead for more comfortable relief from discomfort associated with an outbreak of shingles .

5 . Use topical treatments: Topical treatments such as calamine lotion or over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams may provide temporary relief from itching associated with shingles outbreaks . Always consult your doctor before using any over-the-counter medications or topical treatments since some may not be suitable for everyone depending on individual circumstances .

By following these steps , you'll be able to better manage your case of shingles and reduce discomfort during an outbreak . Remember that it is always best to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen over time , so visit your doctor if necessary .

Tags:

Shingles, Herpes Zoster, Varicella-Zoster Virus, Burning Sensation, Itchy Rash, Blisters, Get Plenty of Rest, Take Medication, Stay Cool, Wear Loose Clothing, Topical Treatments,

Topics