Management & Natural Treatment for Shingles

Shingles (Herpes-Zoster) is a painful skin virus which appears in an individual who have previously had chicken pox. It is really common in older adults. The symptoms of this condition are really painful as it has a negative impact on the skin and leads to different flu-like symptoms, which may last for several weeks.It is a contagious virus.

Symptoms of shingles

Here are a few of the common symptoms of shingles:

  • Small blisters or ulcers which burn

  • Painful rash, appearing as blisters which spread across the body

  • Redness and scabs

  • Tingling sensations

  • Itching

  • Pain on specific areas of skin which lasts even after the clearing of rash

  • Fatigue

  • Issues related to vision with the appearance of blisters near the eyes

  • Loss of appetite

Causes of shingles

Here are few of the causes of shingles

  • Consumption of drugs that have a negative impact on the immunity system

  • Aging

  • Cancer

  • Neoplastic disorders

  • HIV

  • Autoimmune disorders

  • Hereditary issues

  • Premature birth

  • Lower birth weight

  • Nerve damage or injuries enhances the risks of this condition. According to researches, traumatic stimulation of nerves present in dorsal root ganglion can lead to the reactivation of the virus. Nerve damage or experienced injuries enhance the risks of shingles. In addition to this, poor gut health and a high amount of stress can lead to the worsening of shingles. Dramatic life events, chronic stress, psychological stress can contribute to the reactivation of Varicella Zoster Virus.

  • The psychological factors that lead to the development of singles are inclusive of reduced independence, inabilities for working and inadequate environment for social support.

  • The microbiome has an effect on the capabilities for staying protected from the illness. There is a strong relationship between the bacteria residing in the intestines and diseases. The microbiome has a diversity of the microbes as well as beneficial bacteria that has the ability to fight infections, virus, and illness. Few things that can damage the gut health are inclusive of antibiotics, resulting in antibiotic resistance. It can also be the result of poor diet. Shingles may also be the cause of chemical antibacterial product items.

Treatments for shingles

Shingles treatment should be started within 72 hours of the rash appearing. Seek prompt medical attention for antiviral drugs. Shingles are treated with the combination of different medications which are useful for the reduction of severity of pain. It is useful for healing the scabs in an effective manner.There is no treatment for Shingles, however the condition can be managed   with antiviral drugs for a speedy recovery and to reduce the risk of complications. A wide array of people opt for the alternative therapies for the reduction of odds to get shingles, development of immunity as well as management of pain.

There are fewer alternatives that can be useful for the management of long term pain with reduced effects:

  • Neural therapies

  • Acupuncture

  • Improvement of diet for fostering effective gut health

  • Meditation

  • Cold packs orbathing with cold water

  • Traditional Chinese Medicine practice of bleeding with cupping

  • Application of Chamomile oil or Tea tree oil or Eucalyptus oil with its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial property can help with skin irritation.
  • A topical Chinese herbal formula made with a plant called Gentiana Scabra Bunge, found in North America when applied to the affected areas was found beneficial in hastening the pain and decreasing post herpetic neuralgia.

  • It is recommended to make use of natural beauty and cleaning products for fostering a stronger and healthier microbe. It is also useful in the reduction of chances of flaring up of shingles.