How to Manage the Pain of Shingles



Shingles is a painful and uncomfortable condition that affects many people. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Although it can be managed and treated, managing the pain of shingles can be difficult for some people. Here are some tips on how to manage the pain of shingles:

1. Take Pain Medication: Taking over-the-counter or prescription pain medications can help reduce the pain associated with shingles. Talk to your doctor about what type of medication may be best for you.

2. Apply Cool Compresses: Applying cool compresses to affected areas can help reduce inflammation and provide relief from discomfort associated with shingles. Make sure not to use too cold of a compress as this could cause further irritation.

3. Use Topical Creams or Ointments: There are several topical creams and ointments available that can help reduce itching and burning sensations associated with shingles outbreaks. Talk to your doctor about which one may be right for you before using any creams or ointments on your skin.

4. Get Plenty Of Rest: Getting plenty of rest during an outbreak is essential in helping manage the pain associated with shingles outbreaks as it allows your body time to heal itself naturally without additional stressors like physical activity or stressors from work or school obligations getting in the way of recovery time needed for healing from an outbreak of shingles .

5 . Practice Relaxation Techniques : Stress has been known to make symptoms worse , so relaxation techniques such as yoga , mindfulness , meditation , deep breathing exercises , etc., may help alleviate some discomfort associated with having an outbreak .

6 . Eat Healthy Foods : Eating healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, etc., can help keep your immune system strong and better able to fight off infections like those caused by the varicella - zoster virus which causes shingles outbreaks .

7 . Stay Hydrated : Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush toxins out of your body which can also aid in reducing inflammation caused by a shingle outbreak .

Tags:

Shingles, Varicella-zoster virus, Pain Medication, Cool Compresses, Topical Creams/Ointments, Rest, Relaxation Techniques, Healthy Foods, Hydration,

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