There is no cure for shingles, but there are medications that are available to help treat the symptoms associated with the condition.
If you are able to get to a doctor within 72 hours of your shingles symptoms appearing, then you could be prescribed an antiviral medication such as Acyclovir (Zovirax), Famciclovir (), or (). These medications will help to reduce the progress of the shingles rash, which may also help alleviate some of the pain you may be feeling.
Over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen, are usually suggested. Most of the time these will help lower the amount of pain that you are feeling as a result of the shingles.
If your condition of shingles is more severe, you should go see your doctor or a professional healthcare provider. He or she will be able to prescribe you a stronger treatment to help you deal with the pain and other symptoms associated with shingles.
Numbing creams are one type of product that a doctor may prescribe. These topical creams will numb the area of the skin, therefore relieving the pain that you are feeling. It is important to remember that these are meant for use in short periods and should not be overused.
A Capsaicin cream may also be prescribed, which is usually used to treat minor aches and pains of the muscles and joints.
You may also want to try and avoid wearing tight clothing or rough fabrics that could further irritate the area of skin that is affected by shingles. Cotton is recommended.
It is important that you go and talk to your doctor or a professional healthcare provider before taking any medication to treat your shingles pain. He or she will be able to provide you with a more detailed treatment plan that works best for you and your condition of shingles.
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Posted on May 22, 2023