Shingles (herpes zoster) is a viral infection involving a painful, tingly, itchy rash with clusters of fluid-filled blisters (vesicles). The blisters can appear anywhere on the body, but are typically found along one side of the torso or near the ribs. Within two to four weeks after the initial breakout, the rash usually heals up and disappears. However, once the shingles virus runs its course, the pain may return repeatedly. This chronic (long-term) stage of shingles is called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Many home remedies for shingles are known to soothe the rash and help alleviate the itching, burning, and pain.
Avoid bathing or showering in a hot shower; it can worsen the blisters. Furthermore, frigid temperatures will make your skin more sensitive to burning and itching, so avoid icy water as well. The water temperature for a bath or shower should be cool or warm, not hot or extremely cold.
Some of the pain and itchiness associated with shingles can be relieved by taking a 15-minute cool water bath (or shower). By bathing daily, you also keep your skin clean, lowering your risk of skin infection.
When bathing, it’s essential to avoid the use of harsh scented soaps such as those with sulfates. Additionally, refrain from scrubbing the blistered areas vigorously. Do not use a fragrance-based cleanser; instead, gently cleanse the skin with a mild, sulfate-free hypoallergenic product that’s unscented. Use a clean, cotton towel to pat dry the rash (do not rub the skin vigorously with the towel). To prevent spreading the virus, be sure to launder the towel immediately.
Oatmeal has been traditionally used to relieve itching; oatmeal combined with lavender essential oil has been known to help alleviate some of the burning and itching caused by shingles. Compounds found in oatmeal provide anti-inflammatory and moisture-retaining benefits. Colloidal oatmeal has been finely ground as a powder to dissolve in the bath. Colloidal oatmeal has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that help reduce swelling and itching.
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In addition to cool water and medicated baths, cool compresses applied several times daily diminish pain, itching, burning, and inflammation from shingles. Note, remember to launder the washcloth with each use to prevent spreading the infection.
You can make a soothing paste by mixing two parts cornstarch or baking soda with one part of water. Make sure the mixture forms a smooth paste. Apply the paste for 10 to 15 minutes to the shingles rash. Each day, you can reapply this soothing paste as needed.
Witch hazel is a plant made into medicine, applied directly to the skin. It is said to help relieve itching, pain, and swelling (inflammation). Witch Hazel is available in a cream or salve and can be applied directly to the shingles rash to help relieve symptoms. One double-blind study found that witch hazel was more effective for reducing skin inflammation than other natural creams, such as chamomile cream.
Using calamine lotion helps reduce the itchiness of blisters once they have completely scabbed over.
RELATED: Is Itchy Skin Normal?
If the herpes rash becomes infected, antibiotic salve or ointment can help. Talk to your doctor before applying antibiotic ointment or any other cream or ointment to open blisters.
Many medicated lotions and creams can help alleviate discomfort. One such medicated cream is capsaicin cream (such as Zostrix), containing an extract of cayenne pepper called capsaicin. Capsaicin is derived from Chili peppers which provides a warm, penetrating relief as it blocks your body’s pain messenger. Note, do not use capsaicin until the shingles rash crusts over. The cream may have side effects such as stinging or burning.
Most medicated creams and lotions should not be applied to open blisters. Be sure to consult with your doctor before using any creams or lotion to the skin for the treatment of shingles.
Shingles is associated with a weakened immune system. Therefore, it’s essential to eat a healthy diet to help boost the immune system and fight off the virus. Eating a healthy diet may help prevent recurrent outbreaks (called PHN).
Foods that help boost the immune system include lean meat, bright-colored fruits and green leafy vegetables, orange foods like pumpkin, carrots, apricots, and whole grains. Other immune system boosting foods include:
If you have shingles, you can try some home remedies to help alleviate the symptoms. Still, it is best to see a healthcare professional and receive antiviral medication for the best results. If the severity of your pain and other symptoms has not subsided after two to three weeks, or if the pain is not well controlled, contact your healthcare provider.
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