Minimizing the Risk of Developing Shingles Naturally



Shingles is a painful, blistering skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox. While anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, it is most common in people over 50. Fortunately, there are some natural ways to minimize your risk of developing shingles.

1. Boost Your Immune System: One of the best ways to protect yourself from shingles is to keep your immune system strong and healthy. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep and exercise, and reducing stress can all help boost your immune system. Additionally, taking certain supplements such as vitamin C and zinc may also help strengthen your immunity against shingles.

2. Get Vaccinated: The best way to guard against shingles is to get vaccinated for it with the Shingrix vaccine or Zostavax vaccine available from your doctor or pharmacist. Both vaccines are highly effective at preventing shingles in adults aged 50 or older; however, Shingrix is more effective than Zostavax at preventing serious complications associated with the condition such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

3. Avoid Exposure: Since shingles is caused by a virus that spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s fluids (such as saliva), it’s important to avoid close contact with anyone who has active sores or blisters on their skin associated with shingles or chickenpox. If you do come into contact with someone who has either of these conditions, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards and avoid touching any open sores they may have on their skin.

4. Reduce Stress: Research suggests that stress can weaken the immune system which makes one more susceptible to developing illnesses like shingles; therefore reducing stress levels through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation may help reduce one’s risk of developing this condition naturally. Additionally, engaging in activities that make you happy such as spending time outdoors or reading a book can also help reduce stress levels significantly over time which may further decrease one's chances of getting this painful condition naturally without relying on medications alone for prevention purposes .

Tags:

Shingles, Varicella-zoster virus, Chickenpox, Immune System, Vaccinated, Shingrix vaccine, Zostavax vaccine, Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), Fluids (saliva), Stress, Relaxation techniques (yoga/meditation), Activities (outdoors/reading).,

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