The virus varicella-zoster that causes chickenpox is also responsible for causing shingles. It is a viral infection that causes painful rashes on the skin. Usually, those who have been infected with chickenpox are more likely to acquire shingles. It appears as a stripe of blisters typically on the neck, face, or torso. In most cases, shingles take two to three weeks to clear up. Usually, if a person gets shingles once, it rarely happens again. According to various medial study reports, shingles is so common in the country that it affects almost one in the three people at some point in their lifetime. Here is a list of some of the most common symptoms of this viral infection along with the ways of how to treat shingles.
Symptoms of Shingles
The most common symptom of this viral infection is burning and pain. It can be a constant gnawing, stabbing, or sharp pain that comes and goes. Along with this pain, the affected person may experience blistering skin rash. The characteristics of the rashes may include
Some shingles-affected patients can experience symptoms beyond these rashes and pain. Some of these symptoms are
Other than all these abovementioned signs and symptoms of shingles, it can involve some rare as well as serious complications. Intense pain in one of the ears or loss of hearing, loss of taste on the taste buds, dizziness etc. All these can be the symptoms of the Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Rashes and pain, which involve the eye. To avert permanent damage of the eye, it is important to know how to treat shingles.
Usually, those who are in their 60s or are older and are suffering from diseases that involve radiation treatment or chemotherapy and consuming medicines that weaken the immune system are more likely to get shingles.
How to Treat Shingles
If you are wondering how to treat shingles and get rid of this painful viral infection, you should know that until now, no cure for this is available. The treatment involves antiviral medications prescribed by your doctor to help in shortening the duration of the viral attack and reducing the intensity of the symptoms. Other than the antiviral medication, some natural remedies are available to reduce the discomfort and pain.
Try to avoid foods containing high saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, arginine (gelatin, nuts, and chocolate), high amounts of sugar.
Following any one of the above options can help one who does not know how to treat shingles. However, it is advisable to consult a medical expert before taking any medication or supplement as these might have several side effects. Consider taking the medications only under doctor’s guidance.