Shingles result from herpes zoster (also known as varicella zoster), the virus that causes chicken pox. Anyone who has had chicken pox is susceptible to shingles, as the virus lies dormant in your system and can re-emerge during adulthood. Shingles causes painful, itchy red blisters over an area of the skin that can flare up for one to three weeks at a time. Fortunately, there are at-home remedies you can use to help control the pain and itching associated with this condition.
Before the Blisters
Before a rash and blisters actually appear, you may experience pain and tenderness that typically lasts for three days to one week before blisters begin forming. The best way to relieve the pain before the blisters set in is to use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Tylenol or Advil. Also, according to Mother Nature.com, boosting your vitamin C and B-complex supplements will bolster your immune system against the virus and help rebuild damaged nerves, as the shingles virus attacks nerve cells, the cause of most of the pain associated with the condition.
When Blisters Set In
It may seem counter-intuitive, but leaving the blisters alone can be the best thing to do, and applying creams and ointments can actually slow your skin's natural healing process. However, rubbing ice cubes on the area can soothe the itching and pain.
Apply calamine lotion to the skin around the affected area. Keep the lotion in your fridge until you are ready to use it, as the coolness of the lotion will better soothe pain.
If the pain of the blisters is simply too intense, you can apply a topical, analgesic paste that will help ease the pain. Take two or three aspirin tablets, crush them thoroughly and mix with 1 to 2 tbsp. of rubbing alcohol to form a paste. Apply it gently to the blisters. However, if the blisters are open and erupting, do not apply this mixture, as the alcohol will only cause more pain and burning.
Try taking a "starch" bath to relieve the pain and help you relax before bed. Run a cool bath---not hot, as the heat will irritate the blisters---and add a handful of cornstarch or colloidal oatmeal to the mix. Soak for as long as needed to help temporarily relieve the pain.
Always keep your blisters dry and resist the temptation to scratch them. Occasionally dab them with hydrogen peroxide or an antibiotic ointment if they appear to be getting infected. However, Neosporin and neomycin, two common antibiotic ointments, act as skin sensitizers and can induce more pain if added to the blisters; dermatologists recommend using polysporin or erythromycin instead.
Tags: relieve pain, associated with, before blisters, more pain, shingles virus