What is Shingles?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is
a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It is caused by the
varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a
person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can lie dormant in nerve tissue near
the spinal cord and brain. Later in life, the virus can reactivate and cause
shingles.
The symptoms of shingles include a
painful, blistering rash that typically appears on one side of the body, often
in a band or cluster. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, sensitivity
to light, and fatigue. The rash usually lasts for two to four weeks, and the
pain can persist for weeks or months after the rash has healed.
Shingles is most common in people over
the age of 50, and those with weakened immune systems. While there is no cure
for shingles, antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration
of symptoms. It's important to see a healthcare provider if you suspect you
have shingles, as early treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the
risk of long-term pain.
What Caused Shingles?
Shingles is caused by the
varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a
person has had chickenpox, the virus can lie dormant in nerve tissue near the
spinal cord and brain for many years. Later in life, the virus can reactivate
and cause shingles.
The reasons why the virus reactivates are
not entirely clear, but it is thought to be related to a weakened immune system
due to aging, stress, illness, or certain medications. The risk of developing
shingles increases with age, and it is more common in people over the age of
50. Additionally, people with weakened immune systems, such as those with
HIV/AIDS or those who have undergone an organ transplant, are at a higher risk
of developing shingles.
Symptoms
Shingles symptoms usually affect only a small section on one side of your body. These symptoms may include:
- Pain, burning or tingling
- Sensitivity to touch
- A red rash that begins a few days after the pain
- Fluid-filled blisters that break open and crust over
- Itching
Some people also experience:
- Fever
- Headache
- Sensitivity to light
- Fatigue
Pain is usually the first symptom of
shingles. For some people, the pain can be intense. Depending on the location
of the pain, it can sometimes be mistaken for problems with the heart, lungs or
kidneys. Some people experience shingles pain without ever developing the rash.
Most commonly, the shingles rash
develops as a stripe of blisters that wraps around either the left or right
side of the torso. Sometimes the shingles rash occurs around one eye or on one
side of the neck or face.
Natural Treatments for Shingles?
Shingles is a viral
infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox.
Shingles can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but there are several
natural treatments that may help alleviate symptoms. Here are some natural
treatments for shingles:
Cool compresses: Applying
cool compresses to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Use
a clean, damp cloth and apply it to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes at a
time, several times a day.
Oatmeal baths: Adding
colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath can help soothe the skin and reduce
itching. You can find colloidal oatmeal at your local drugstore or online.
Essential oils: Some
essential oils, such as tea tree oil and lavender oil, may help reduce pain and
inflammation associated with shingles. Dilute a few drops of the essential oil
in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to the affected area.
Calendula cream: Calendula
cream has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain and itching
associated with shingles. Apply the cream to the affected area several times a
day.
Vitamin E oil: Vitamin E oil
may help reduce scarring and promote healing of the skin. Apply a few drops of
vitamin E oil to the affected area several times a day.
L-lysine: L-lysine is an
amino acid that may help reduce the severity and duration of shingles
outbreaks. You can take L-lysine supplements or eat foods that are high in
lysine, such as fish, chicken, and legumes.
Stress reduction: Stress can
trigger shingles outbreaks, so finding ways to reduce stress, such as
meditation or yoga, may help prevent future outbreaks.
It's important to note that
natural treatments should not replace medical treatment for shingles. If you
suspect you have shingles, it's important to see a healthcare provider for
proper diagnosis and treatment.
