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Your Questions About Shingles

Posted on April 6, 2011 by Joe Homps

Charles asks…

can herpes zoster vaccine be given to an elderly with active herpes zoster?

admin answers:

Acyclovir is used to decrease pain and speed the healing of sores or blisters in people who have varicella (chickenpox), herpes zoster (shingles; a rash that can occur in people who have had chickenpox in the past), and first-time or repeat outbreaks of genital herpes (a herpes virus infection that causes sores to form around the genitals and rectum from time to time). Acyclovir is also sometimes used to prevent outbreaks of genital herpes in people who are infected with the virus. Acyclovir is in a class of antiviral medications called synthetic nucleoside analogues. It works by stopping the spread of the herpes virus in the body. Acyclovir will not cure genital herpes and may not stop the spread of genital herpes to other people.
Vaccine is always administered for prevention and not for treatment.
Consult your doctor.

Donald asks…

Does any one know anything about the anti- Herpes Zoster vaccine? (also known as shingles)?

Should my elderly parents receive it? My mother has already had shingles and my father has never had shingles. They have receved contradictory information from their family doctor and his nurse and are now confused. The cost for the vaccine is around $300.00.

admin answers:

Below is a link that may help u to answer your questions, gl hope it helps 🙂

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/505852

Carol asks…

I had the shingles vaccine, and still got herpes zoster (mild case.) Can I get it again?

admin answers:

Unfortunately, yes. Some people just don’t react to vaccines well. Happens sometimes. It could be that if you get the vaccine again that second dose will push your immune system up over the edge into full immunity. If not, it does mean that if you get shingles, it will be a milder case.

Mark asks…

Is there a vaccine that has not yet been approved for Shingles – Herpes Zoster?

admin answers:

Yes the name of the vaccine is Zostavax. It is recommended to elderly over 60. You can read about it on this wed site.

Sharon asks…

Triggers of Shingles (herpes zoster)?

I got shingles about 3 years ago in my senior year of high school. It was a horrible experience and I am now feeling the same pre-symptoms as I did the first time. I am pretty stressed because of school, but I don’t think that’s all that triggered the reaction. I recently was made to take the varicella vaccine for a second time and I’m wondering if that could have been the trigger to start up the virus again? I would appreciate greatly if someone knows the answer to this, I haven’t been able to find any.
I had to take the varicella a second time because my CNA class required if for some reason. I thought it was kind of weird too. Thank you all for your time and answers!

admin answers:

I’m confused, why did you have the Varicella vaccine if you had previously had the wild chicken pox virus?

Although the CDC report rare cases, you can’t really get shingles from the vaccine. It wouldn’t be a true shingles outbreak anyway. Nothing compared to the real thing. The vaccine virus is extremely attenuated

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Your Questions About Shingles

Posted on April 5, 2011 by Joe Homps

Laura asks…

Has anyone had shingles on their scalp?

I know someone who has been told they may be developing shingles on one side of their head based on the symptoms. She first had itching on one side of her head that progressed to numbness and pain. The pain is extreme and there seems to be no pain medication that alleviates it. This progression has gone on for nearly two weeks and no blisters have appeared. Has anyone had head shingles or symptoms like this? If so, what is the treatment and duration?

admin answers:

Has she broken out with blisters since you wrote your message? She should get to a doctor and get an antiviral in the event it IS shingles. If the antiviral is started before the blisters appear the effects from the herpes zoster virus won’t be as serious.

I developed shingles of the scalp a few weeks ago and now have the most aggravating itching. There’s pain as well that I’m told will last for at least a couple of months. I took Acyclovir before the blisters came out as I had headaches, shooting pains and a small swelling on my head for about 4 days and the doctor was sure it would turn out to be shingles. When the blisters came out two days after starting the antiviral drug, they were far less serious than they probably would have been otherwise. The affected area is limited to the right side of my forehead and the scalp area on the right frontal & top area. It’s a nasty disease and can be very, very painful. I now take pain meds because the usual over-the-counter meds don’t do the trick, plus there’s terrible itching which is also helped by the pain meds. Good luck to your friend.

Carol asks…

without treatment how long could you live from the time of infection to the time of death?

My friend got divorced 8 years ago. She found out 2 months ago that he was in the hospital dying from a brain tumor caused by aids. Over the past 2 years he has had symptoms such as shingles, diarreah, and weight loss. Until reading these articles I didn’t even know they were signs. He wasn’t one to go to the dr. for anything because he had no insurance. Is it possible he didn’t know he had it until 2 months ago?

admin answers:

If he didnt think anything of these illnesses or had a worry of aids then it is possible

Nancy asks…

For how long is a new case of shingles considered contagious?

My Dad has a new case of shingles, and began a regimen of treatment with zovirax/acyclovir within 36 hours of noticing the first symptoms. The question is: for what period of time following the onset of treatment is the disease generally considered to be in a contagious phase?

admin answers:

Shingles is not “practically herpes”, it IS herpes — herpes zoster. Herpes zoster (varicella zoster) is contagious for chicken pox only for those who have never had chicken pox or have had only a subclinical (mild) case. You cannot transmit shingles to another person with or without medication. You can transmit only chicken pox. Zovirax (acyclovir) is for zoster suppression and doesn’t prevent transmission. Once the sores are completely scabbed over, chances of transmission is drastically reduced.

Note to my fellow RN, Ruth: When including a web address in your answer, be sure to include http:// at the beginning. The address will show up in blue and the Asker will be able to click on it and be taken to the website you want them to see.

Sandy asks…

Painful blisters on earlobe…Diagnosis??? Herbal Treatments?? Contagious??

For the past 5 days, I have been experiencing moderate pain around the right side of my face. The cause of the pain seems to be 2-3 very small blisters, inside my right ear, that seems to form a crusty cluster and fall off. Also, behind my right ear, within the lymphnodes area, there is a painful lump. Not to mention, my ear lobe is swollen. Does anyone have any ideas or information on what I am experiencing??? Herbal Treatments? Symptoms??
Now, this is the first time for these small blisters to appear inside my ear, however, I have experienced the same symptoms before, but located on the bottom right side of my neck, and I only experienced it about 3-4 within the last 15years. Doctors was unsure of the aforementioned neck scenario, but diagnosed it as a form of Shingles. However, I am clueless and scared of what I am currently going through. HELP!!!!
Oh yeah, if it helps to know, despite of this, I am in my late 20’s and typically considered healthy.
Thanks!

admin answers:

COULD BE A FURUNCLE, OR RAMSAY HUNT SYNDROME
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Donald asks…

Painful blisters located on earlobe…Diagnosis??? Herbal Treatments?? Contagious??

For the past 3 days, I have been experiencing moderate pain around the right side of my face. The cause of the pain seems to be 2-3 very small blisters, inside my right ear, that seems to form a crusty cluster and fall off. Also, behind my right ear, within the lymphnodes area, there is a painful lump. Not to mention, my ear lobe is swollen. Does anyone have any ideas or information on what I am experiencing??? Herbal Treatments? Symptoms??
Now, this is the first time for these small blisters to appear inside my ear, however, I have experienced the same symptoms before, but located on the bottom right side of my neck, and I only experienced it about 3-4 within the last 15years. Doctors was unsure of the aforementioned neck scenario, but diagnosed it as a form of Shingles. However, I am clueless and scared of what I am currently going through. HELP!!!!
Oh yeah, if it helps to know, despite of this, I am in my late 20’s and typically considered healthy.
THanks Everyone!!!
**********

admin answers:

SHINGLES!!!!!! Get to a doctor. But I am betting he will tell you that you are suffering from the very painful virus called Shingels. My sister had shingles in her ear and they were so painful. I really have pity for you. Good luck. She went to a dermatologist and they were able to help her. Try a dermatologist.

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Your Questions About Shingles

Posted on April 4, 2011 by Joe Homps

Sandra asks…

Vicodin Vs Tylenol Extra Strength (Shingles Pain Treatment)?

I just ran out of Vicodin 5/500 and all I have is Tylenol x-tra strength.. how do I substitute?

admin answers:

Tylenol and Vicodin are 2 different medications. Vicodin has tylenol in it but it also has hydrocodone. So, there is no way to substitute. It is the hydrocodone that gives vicodin superior efficacy over tylenol. You don’t want to take too much tylenol in an attempt to match the potency (power) of vicodin because a major side effect is liver damage. Tylenol toxicity can lead to one needing a liver transplant. In short, there is no way to substitute tylenol for vicodin in hopes of getting the same desired pain relief effect.

Michael asks…

What is the best treatment for nerve pain after shingles?

admin answers:

Try a cool damp cloth. Not too cold though.

Nancy asks…

I am 50 years old suffing shingles pain my right back and front.Suggest proven treatment in India/UAE?

I am clinically 100% sure it is post pain of marks left on my skin after shingles attack April 2005.I am tired of tratment had so far and unbearable pain.I was treated in India, now I am in UAE. If some one can help me advising proven treatment god will bless him.I am now affraid of physicians as waisted enough money and could not get rid of this virus.Thanks in advance for them who will help me in this regard.

admin answers:

You are suffering from what is called “Post herpetic neuralgia”.. The nerve along which the infection first appeared causes radiating pain.It disappears spontaneously over a period of time without any treatment. Normal analgesics like Paracetamol or Brufen are enough. A mild sedation like Alprozalom 5mg one hour before bed is good.
Homoeopaths claim they cure it faster with Argentum nitricum 30X liquid two drops twice a day for one week

Betty asks…

what is the proper treatment for the chronic pain that occurs after a bout of shingles rashes?

I had painful rashes on my back and abdomen which eventually subsided leaving scars but chronic pain still persists. I am having
severe back and abdominal pain for the past one week. How long will it last and what is the best treatment?

admin answers:

My dr prescribed Valtrex, which decreases the length of time that you have the symptoms, and helps prevent future problems. Best wishes, I’m going thru the same thing.

Laura asks…

I would like to know if acupunture treatment works for shingles. As a pain releif?

admin answers:

Acupuncture is very effective for pain relief if used properly. This means getting diagnosed and treated by a qualified, trained and licensed practitioner.

There is much literature about the role of acupuncture in the treatment of shingles induced pain and these are mixed in results. Personally, I’ve only had one patient with shingles who consulted for pain relief (and that was in China). I saw some progression but it was agonizingly slow. So I guess what I’m saying is for shingles it may not be as effective as other kinds of pain. (works pretty fast for muscle pain though)

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How long did the symptoms of shingles last?

Posted on April 3, 2011 by Joe Homps

Mark asks…

How long did the symptoms of shingles last for your child?

I am looking for more information directed to children then adults. My daughter is 10 and was diagnosed with shingles yesterday. I’m wondering how long the pain, blisters etc. lasted with other children. It seems to be a bit different in children then adults. Any info that you may have after dealing with it as a parent would be appreciated. Thank you!

admin answers:

My middle daughter had shingles when she was 14 or 15 years old. Her symptoms lasted for 10 to 14 days, i.e. The sores, blisters, red lines that ran from her upper back to her hand. The pain was more than a week but I am not sure how long that was. She had to be put on prescription pain meds because she hurt so bad, so don’t let them tell you that they can’t give her anything for the pain.

I hope I have been at least, a little bit of help to you. Good luck and I will keep you and your daughter in my prayers.

Susan asks…

How long do the symptoms of Shingles last?

My mum had it over Christmas and she’s still not feeling like herself. She’s much better than she was but she feels washed out and exhausted and generally under the weather. Should it have cleared up by now?

admin answers:

At least 7-10 days up to a month

Sandy asks…

What is the full chronology of symptoms of shingles – from start to the very very end?

Had them for over a month and now starting to get new blisters. I’m on Acylovir, etc. They have scabbed over and now just big red blotches but I’m getting new small blisters. Do es it scar? Will it ever GO AWAY! please

admin answers:

Prodromal stage (before the rash appears)

* Pain, burning, tickling, tingling, or numbness develops in the area around the affected nerves several days before a rash begins. The discomfort occurs on a single side of the body, commonly on the chest or back, but it may occur on the abdomen, head, face, neck, or one arm or leg.
* Flu-like symptoms (usually without a fever), such as chills, stomachache, or diarrhea, may develop just before or along with the start of the rash.
* Swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes may occur.

Active stage (rash and blisters appear)

* A rash consisting of small fluid-filled blisters develops on reddened skin on one side of your body. Fluid inside the blister is initially clear but may become cloudy after 3 to 4 days.
* The rash may occur on the forehead, cheek, nose, and around one eye (herpes zoster ophthalmicusClick here to see an illustration.), which may threaten your sight unless you receive prompt treatment.3
* Extreme pain, described as ?piercing needles in the skin,? May accompany the skin rash.
* Blisters may break open, ooze, and crust over in about 5 days. Complete healing takes about 2 to 4 weeks, although some scars may remain.2

Postherpetic neuralgia (chronic pain stage)

* Postherpetic neuralgia is the most common complication of shingles. It lasts for at least 30 days and continues for months to years. Symptoms are:5
o Aching, burning, stabbing pain in the area of the earlier shingles rash.
O Persistent pain that may linger for years.
O Extreme sensitivity to the touch.
* The pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia most commonly affects the forehead or chest, and it may make it difficult for the person to eat, sleep, and perform daily activities. It may also lead to depression.

Linda asks…

What are the symptoms of Shingles? I have been working with a woman who has now got them, am i likely to get..

them? Is it related to Chicken Pox? I have already had that. I have found 2 odd spots, one on my neck and one on my belly, both with black heads on them, i have never had these before.

admin answers:

It is related to the chicken pox virus, and tends to be in adults, but not always. I had chicken pox when I was a baby and then I got shingles when I was 11, so it isn´t restricted to adults only. It is contagious but generally only if you touch it. It looks like blisters rather than blackheads and you tend to get it in a rash rather than spots on their own. It is very itchy and very uncomfortable and not pleasant at all. Keep an eye on your spots, and see a doctor if you remain worried.

Charles asks…

what are the symptoms, treatment, and duration of shingles?

hii! my uncle has shingles and i was curious to know what the symptoms & how it could be treated. Also, how long does it take for shingles to go away?

admin answers:

An extremely painful rash around the trunk of the body, can last for weeks and recur for months. Very herpes-like in appearance and pain.

Treated with antiviral drugs. May or may not occur again.

Seriousness and duration are wholly dependent on each individuals resistance to the disease.

There is a vaccination for this disorder for people who had chicken pox as a child. Only a fool would not get this shot. Ask someone who has had the shingles about their opinion on getting a preventative vaccine if they had known then what they know now.

Posted in Q & A, Symptoms of Shingles | Leave a comment

Home remedies for shingles

Posted on April 1, 2011 by Joe Homps

Donna asks…

Does anyone have any at home remedies for shingles?

I am 27 years old and have had a reoccuring bout of shingles (probably once every 2 years or so) on my forehead. It’s quite embarassing and I’m looking for any recommendations to help speed the healing of them. They seem to usually last about two weeks.

admin answers:

I have an 18 year old step daughter who has had shingles since she was about 5, they said she had a severe trauma I think she fell or something, not sure but she has them also on her forehead as well and sometimes they get on her eye, you can go blind from them, she goes to the doctor for medicine and it clears it up, but they always seem to come back….. I would say go to the doctor for them….

Sharon asks…

I have shingles and I need home remedies.?

I have recently been dianosed with shingles but the doctor didn’t give me any home remedies. I was prescribed medicine but it isn’t working fast enough. I also need some tips to prevent scarring being that is is a severe case. Please help!

admin answers:

The cause for pimples are many and not only adolescence as
popularly believed. Chronic constipation is one major cause,
the food we eat plays a very important role. You will have
to cut down the fried food, chocolates, cheese and aerated
drinks. Eat a lot of fresh fruits and green vegetables with
a lot of water. Instead of washing the face with soap, use
orange peel powder. Dry Orange peels in the shade for 4-5
days. Powder finely and store. Wash your face with this 2-3
times a day. It clears the face and feels very refreshing.
More tips http://acnecaretipz.blogspot.com

Lisa asks…

Anyone know any remedies for Shingles?

Hi
My sister went to the doc yesterday and she has shingles, they gave her a tablet and painkiller but does anyone have any tried and tested remedies to ease the pain and itching?
Lastnight we tried wet bandages, which worked for a while but she didnt sleep at all.

admin answers:

Please see the enclosed Home Remedy Treatments for Shingles:

While it’s imperative that you see your doctor if you suspect you have shingles, you may also want to try some of the following home remedies to ease the pain.

1. Cool the pain. Cold packs can help relieve the pain from hot, blistered skin. Gently place a cold cloth on the blisters or wrap a towel around the affected area and pour ice water on it. Apply for 20 minutes, then leave off for 20 minutes, and repeat until the pain decreases. You can also try a cold milk compress in the same manner.

2.Stay in bed. Rest will help your body’s defenses come to your rescue.

3.Take an anti-inflammatory drug. Ibuprofen helps reduce inflammation and is the first line of defense in fighting the pain. Aspirin may be another option. If you are allergic to ibuprofen and aspirin, take over-the-counter (OTC) acetaminophen (it can help relieve pain, although it doesn’t fight inflammation). If these don’t help, ask your doctor to prescribe something for the pain. Codeine or other mild narcotics can help reduce the pain in the early phase of shingles. For a list of precautions to take when using over-the-counter analgesics, click here.

4.Rub on relief. Your doctor may recommend or prescribe a topical local anesthetic cream to be used on your blistered skin. Be leery of OTC topical products that contain diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or any ingredient ending in -caine, however; these can cause an allergic reaction and thus may worsen the situation.

5.One remedy for easing the pain of shingles is applying an OTC cream that contains capsaicin, which comes from hot peppers.

6.Don’t pop the blisters. The temptation may be unbearable, but you will only prolong healing time and open the door to scarring and secondary infection.

7.Don’t spread them. Although it won’t bring relief to you, stay away from people who are at risk: Avoid people with any sort of immune problem, such as transplant or cancer patients and children who haven’t yet been exposed to chicken pox.

8.Consider a hot-pepper fix. If the blisters have healed, but the pain persists, what options do you have? Apply hot peppers? Not exactly.
But applying an OTC cream (such as Zostrix) that contains capsaicin,
which is derived from hot peppers, may help. However, many doctors don’t recommend capsaicin therapy since it may actually worsen pain for the first two or three days. If you’re really suffering, ask your doctor for advice on trying this remedy.

9.Try to relax. For lingering discomfort from shingles (or from any type of chronic pain, really), consider learning self-hypnosis, imagery, or meditation or engaging in some other activity that can help you relax. Coping with pain is stressful, and stress, in turn, may increase pain perception. Finding a reliable home remedy to calm yourself certainly won’t hurt you, and it may help you deal more effectively with the pain.

10.Try TENS. You may be able to relieve the symptoms of shingles with a TENS (which stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) device. In theory, TENS blocks pain signals from reaching the brain with a weak electrical current (which is painless, though you will feel a tingling sensation). You can purchase a TENS unit to use at home for around $100. Your doctor’s office or local hospital may be able to give you information on where to purchase one of these.

Consider an antidepressant. Some studies have shown that low doses of antidepressant medications help relieve shingles-related pain, even in patients who are not suffering from depression. How? Some antidepressants block the removal of a neurotransmitter called serotonin. Extra amounts of circulating serotonin may keep pain signals from reaching the brain. Talk it over with your doctor to determine if an antidepressant might help you cope with continuing pain following a shingles outbreak.

From relaxation techniques to antidepressants, the home treatment options to ease the pain of shingles are varied. The good news is one of the home remedies just might work!

Thanks – Maandeep

Maria asks…

SHINGLES REMEDIES HELP?!?

i got it for the first time when i was 16.5 – it lasted 6 months
and now im 17.5 and got it again – ive had them for 2 months now

does anyone know any home remedies or anything to help them go away?
ive already been to the doctor and they gave me steroid cream, but i was wondering if anyone else knew any ticks? 🙂

i know its very rare for a teenager to get shingles, but trust me…they’re shingles. ive even had a doctor confirm it:/

admin answers:

I don’t know of anything but repost it in the Alternaltive medicine section and you may have a bit of luck, they are a rotten thing to get i feel for you hope you are well soon

Mary asks…

I’m looking for a home remedy for shingles, read where they are a virus,needing a remedy?

I have shingles just below my lower lip, are there any good home remedies, I did read where if one had chicken pox in there life they are susceptible to this virus, no cure but need some good home remedy,

admin answers:

Hiya, i feel for you – i had shingles when i was 16 – its a dormant virus stays in your body once you have had chicken pox – can be bought out by stress, illness, fatigue etc when i had it i didnt do anything about it until about 2 weeks later and was only perscibed ibrupfen – i used calamine lotion to calm the itching and soreness, ice packs – or a damp cloth also works to ease the itchiness/pain.

I also pulled this from a website for u ………

Home Remedy Treatments for Shingles

While it’s imperative that you see your doctor if you suspect you have shingles, you may also want to try some of the following home remedies to ease the pain.

Cool the pain. Cold packs can help relieve the pain from hot, blistered skin. Gently place a cold cloth on the blisters or wrap a towel around the affected area and pour ice water on it. Apply for 20 minutes, then leave off for 20 minutes, and repeat until the pain decreases. You can also try a cold milk compress in the same manner.

Stay in bed. Rest will help your body’s defenses come to your rescue.

Take an anti-inflammatory drug. Ibuprofen helps reduce inflammation and is the first line of defense in fighting the pain. Aspirin may be another option. If you are allergic to ibuprofen and aspirin, take over-the-counter (OTC) acetaminophen (it can help relieve pain, although it doesn’t fight inflammation). If these don’t help, ask your doctor to prescribe something for the pain. Codeine or other mild narcotics can help reduce the pain in the early phase of shingles. For a list of precautions to take when using over-the-counter analgesics, click here.

Rub on relief. Your doctor may recommend or prescribe a topical local anesthetic cream to be used on your blistered skin. Be leery of OTC topical products that contain diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or any ingredient ending in -caine, however; these can cause an allergic reaction and thus may worsen the situation.

Don’t pop the blisters. The temptation may be unbearable, but you will only prolong healing time and open the door to scarring and secondary infection.

Don’t spread them. Although it won’t bring relief to you, stay away from people who are at risk: Avoid people with any sort of immune problem, such as transplant or cancer patients and children who haven’t yet been exposed to chicken pox.

Consider a hot-pepper fix. If the blisters have healed, but the pain persists, what options do you have? Apply hot peppers? Not exactly.
But applying an OTC cream (such as Zostrix) that contains capsaicin,
which is derived from hot peppers, may help. However, many doctors don’t recommend capsaicin therapy since it may actually worsen pain for the first two or three days. If you’re really suffering, ask your doctor for advice on trying this remedy.

Try to relax. For lingering discomfort from shingles (or from any type of chronic pain, really), consider learning self-hypnosis, imagery, or meditation or engaging in some other activity that can help you relax. Coping with pain is stressful, and stress, in turn, may increase pain perception. Finding a reliable home remedy to calm yourself certainly won’t hurt you, and it may help you deal more effectively with the pain.

Try TENS. You may be able to relieve the symptoms of shingles with a TENS (which stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) device. In theory, TENS blocks pain signals from reaching the brain with a weak electrical current (which is painless, though you will feel a tingling sensation). You can purchase a TENS unit to use at home for around $100. Your doctor’s office or local hospital may be able to give you information on where to purchase one of these.

From relaxation techniques to antidepressants, the home treatment options to ease the pain of shingles are varied. The good news is one of the home remedies just might work!

I hope some of this helps and that it goes away soon 🙂

Posted in Natural Remedies for Shingles, Q & A | Leave a comment

Pain medicine for shingles

Posted on March 31, 2011 by Joe Homps

Mandy asks…

do doctors give you pain medicine for shingles?

im gonna go see the docs and the pain is unbearable…i just hope that they can give pain meds for my arm. it feels lik somebody is stabbing my arm!

admin answers:

Yes.

You might need to try different pain medications, as they don’t all work well for everyone. Some pain meds are addictive, and shingles can last quite a while, so your doctor needs to consider which pain med will work best for you.

If you can see a doctor in the very early stages of a shingles outbreak, there is a drug that can help to stop shingles.

Also, there were some tiny pills I bought at a health food store that seemed to help. These pills were only about one eighth of an inch in diameter, and you put them under your tongue to dissolve. These pills either helped, or the shingles went away on their own, but the pills didn’t hurt. Sorry, I don’t remember what they were called … Something about supporting nerve health (the shingles/chicken pox virus lives in your nerves).

Sharon asks…

HOW LONG DOES A CASE OF SHINGLES LAST AND WHAT IS THE BEST MEDICINE TO RELIEVE THE PAIN?

MY HUSBAND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH SHINGLES THE MIDDLE OF 2009 AND HE HAS CONTINUOUS DISCOMFORT WITH OCCASIONAL SEVERE PAIN. HIS DOCTOR SAYS IT COULD GO ON FOR YEARS IN SOME CASES.

admin answers:

There is no way to predict the duration of the pain. Neurontin is a medication that may provide some relief from shingles pain, but otherwise, pain medication is not very effective. In your husbands case, a neurologist might be able to inject him with a nerve block that would work anywhere from weeks to months – it depends somewhat on which nerves are affected. The best bet would be having your regular doc help set up an appointment with a neurologist. Neuros are often booked months in advance, so a referral can be important.

Steven asks…

Any good pain medicine?

for shingles pain, perferably over the counter.
not with the shingles, the blisters are gone, but the pain remains, thats what i need pain medicine for.

admin answers:

Bc powder

George asks…

I have shingles and i want to know if there is any over the counter medicine to take for the pain?

admin answers:

Acyclovir (an antiviral drug) inhibits replication of the viral DNA, and is used both as prophylaxis (e.g., in patients with AIDS) and as therapy for herpes zoster. Other antivirals are valacyclovir and famciclovir. Steroids are often given in severe cases. During the acute phase oral aciclovir should be given five times daily for 7 to 10 days. Immunocompromised patients may respond best to intravenous aciclovir. In patients who are at high risk for recurrences, an oral dose of aciclovir, taken twice daily, is usually effective.

The long term complication postherpetic neuralgia may cause persistent pain that lasts for years. Pain management is difficult as conventional analgesics may be ineffective. Alternative agents are often used, including tricyclic antidepressants (particularly amitriptyline), anticonvulsants (e.g. Gabapentin, and/or topical capscaicin).

Zostavax is a vaccine developed by Merck & Co. Which has proven successful in preventing half the cases of herpes zoster in a study of 38,000 people who received the vaccine.[2] The vaccine also reduced by two-thirds the number of cases of postherpetic neuralgia (Oxman et al., 2005). However, prior to the vaccine, it has long been known that adults received natural immune boosting from contact with children infected with varicella. This helped to suppress the reactivation of herpes zoster.(PMID 12057605) In Massachusetts, herpes zoster incidence increased 90%, from 2.77/1000 to 5.25/1000 in the period of increasing varicella vaccination 1999-2003 (Yih et al., 2005). The effectiveness of the varicella vaccine itself is dependent on this exogenous (outside) boosting mechanism. Thus, as natural cases of varicella decline, so has the effectiveness of the vaccine (Goldman, 2005).

Often the same treatment given to burn victims relieves the pain of shingles, including over-the-counter moist burn pads.

Lizzie asks…

After Shingles Pain still there after several years…?

Hello, I’m 18 years old and have broken out in the shingles rash twice about six years ago (very rare, I know). Since then I still suffer from slight nerve pain caused by the virus. I was wondering if there was any sort of medicine available to help ease my pain whenever I get stressed out. Especially since I just started college and have been very stressed out.

admin answers:

There’s several different sorts out there – however, I should warn you that the pain resulting from shingles is neuropathic. The current available therapies for this are not enormously successful, though most people can gain at least a significant amount of relief, it’s not always complete, and depends on how severe it is.

The main medications used with most success are anticonvulscants. They’re usually used for managing seizures, but as neuropathic pain is a disorder of nerve cells, they have some success there as well. The two chief medications used are Gabapentin and it’s sister drug Lyrica. They’re rather odd medications, but they do tend to work for this sort of thing. Other medications in this class are sometimes used as well.

The other class to try is are the tricyclic antidepressants. These aren’t used so much for depression anymore, as there are better meds, but there’s still one thing they’re rather good at, and that’s neuropathic pain.

There’s quite a few things out there to try.

If you’re attending a four year university, there’s a student health center or clinic/medical center on campus – and you should have insurance there through your school. That’s the first place to try. Make an appointment to see a general practitioner. Every university has these – though if you’re attending a two year, or community/junior college, I’m not sure if they have such things.

Posted in Q & A, Treatments for Shingles | Leave a comment

Questions About Shingles

Posted on March 30, 2011 by Joe Homps

Jenny asks…

I have a few questions about shingles?

My grandmother on my mother’s side of my family has just been diagnosed with shingles. My grandfather on my father’s side of the family has been receiving chemo for some time. can my father become a carrier of the disease?

Can it be passed on to my sisters (2, 8) who have never had chicken pox?

Can I get it? I had the vaccine for CP.
By passed on I meant can they contract it. I thought that I made that clear by not adding genetically to the end. Why would shingles be passed on genetically?

admin answers:

Shingles are not genetic. If one had chicken pox as a child then one has the propensity to get shingles later in life. End of story. This does not mean that one WILL get shingles; only that they could/might get shingles. Unlike chicken pox, shingles are not contagious.

Donald asks…

if they recommend yearly chickenpox vaccine boosters would you give them to your child ( every year)?

My friends son got chickenpox. Hes had both of his chickenpox vaccines, the first one at like 18 mos or whenever they give it( that was supposed to be the only one) and then the second one at 4 y( when they figured the first one wasnt enough)
She took him to the dr and they were not surprised at all that he got chickenpox even with both vaccines. They said it happens all the time, although the cases are usually milder than without the vaccine. The dr said that fda was trying to figure out if they need to make it a yearly thing like a flu vaccine to make sure kids keep their immunity.
Now would you be willing to give it to your kid every year? I was really mad when my dr told me my kids needed a booster of it after I was originally told it was a one time thing. i would not give it to them yearly.
In my opinion it would be better to just let the kids have the disease and then be immune to it if tey cant have a one time or even once every ten year type of vaccine to it. What happens to all these kids who were immunized as kids and the shot wears off in their adulthood and then they all get it and end up with shingles etc?
Just another reason why I will not be giving my kids any new vaccines they keep bringing to the market because obviously they are not properly tested.
( and my kids have recieved every vaccine they are supposed to except that h1n1 last year)
yeah, now I wish I hadent given it to them at all. My daughter who only has had one will not get her booster until her school requires it.
I had them as a kid and pulled thru ok lol I just thought cool, no chicken pox for them but if I knew what I know now I would have just skipped it

admin answers:

I’m not getting my son the vaccine unless he makes it to 12 without getting them. Then I will…. There is no need for that vaccine imo when they are little unless they have a underlying condition that could put them in danger. In an otherwise healthy child there is no need. Now as they get older, it can be deadly, so of course I will have him vaccinated if he happens to not get the chicken pox.

Sandy asks…

Do shingles count as chicken pox?

I had chicken pox when I was only 4months and it was very mild so my mother didn’t take me to the doctors. My problem is now I go to school in a new state where it’s required to have the chicken pox vaccine if you haven’t had chicken pox and can prove it with medical records and since I can’t prove with medical records I’ve had them I’m required to get the shot. However, I did have shingles when I was about 6 or 7, that I can prove with medical records, and I read that it was caused by the same disease that causes chicken pox so I was wondering if that might be enough proof or not?

I know I should probably just get it over with but I had the first chicken pox shot back in August and I got some pretty unpleasant side effects and the people there were very rude. So If I don’t have to do it again I would rather not.

admin answers:

Yes, if you had proof you had shingles, that is evidence of immunity to chickenpox.

William asks…

Anyone else have no immunity to chickenpox?

Since I was a child I have had chickenpox 7 times. Diagnosed each time by a pediatrician. My mom and younger sister also do not have immunity, my mom has had it 9 times including a case of shingles as an adult, and my sister has had it 6 times, the most recent about 7 years ago at the age of 18. They tried giving us the vaccine when we were little and it was first offered, and all it did was give us chickenpox. I’m just wondering if anyone else out there has experieneced this or knows of anyone else who isn’t immune? My immune system is otherwise strong and I don’t have any immunity issues with other diseases. Every time I get exposed I get it and now I have kids, so I’m worried I’ll end up with shingles if they get it.

admin answers:

You have cells in your called b-cells and what they do is they go to a site in your body where your t-cells (immune system cells) are fighting with a foreign object or cell that shouldnt be there. What the b-cell does is it acts as a journalist at the scene of the fight. It takes a picture of the foreign object and stores it so that if it ever comes back your body will automatically remember and know how to fight it off. This is why many people never get chicken pox more than once. I am not a doctor but I would think that the problem is in your b-cells or maybe a slightly compormised immune system.

Paul asks…

POLL: What are your opinions on exempt cards for vaccines?

Yes there is such a thing. If you go to the health department you can request a vaccine exempt card and it’s usually based on religious or other beliefs. I’ve never had a shot in my life. I’ve never had any disease and I’ve never even had chicken pox. All the people in my family got these except me. My grandmother even got Shingles when she was older. So you can’t tell me that vaccines get rid of everything. Or prevent everything. I know they have to some degree but what about the percentage that does get it? Do we not have to care about them and just shove vaccines on them? When they don’t believe it.
Don’t we have freedom of religion though? What if those vaccines goes against that religion? Not saying I’m one way or another. Just throwing it out there.

admin answers:

Is this what living in the land of the free is supposed to mean?
People have a right to decide what is injected into their own and their children’s bodies. This compulsion by the back door of not allowing people into school without them is disgusting fascism. Personally if I lived in the US I would home school rather than allow invasive unnecessary medical procedures on my child.
Although I believe that most states do have philosophical and religious exemptions.

Ultimately forced vaccinations are forbidden under international law, specifically, The Nuremberg Accords. Are you a supporter of international laws and personal freedom? Or do you support forced medication against people’s wishes for none life threatening situations.

Really the whole idea of not allowing unvaccinated children into schools is nonsense because IF the vaccines actually worked how could an unvaccinated child affect a vaccinated one.

Herd immunity, this is just big pharma propaganda and irrelevent. Herd immunity is a theory concerning natural immunity passed on through breeding and the original figure was approx 45%, suddenly big Pharma stole the catchphrase and with no reasoning changed the figure to 90-95%. Very handy if you happen to be selling vaccines. You know I actually heard that in the US parents cannot help out at school events unless they are up to date with their tetanus, yet lockjaw is so rare that most doctors never see a case in their whole carreers!
There is very little/no evidence that vaccines work at all and I believe them to be harmful.
The problem with fascist movements like this is that the pro vaccine camp aren’t just happy to take their own shots, they WANT every one to have them , by force if necessary

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Pregnant and with shingles

Posted on March 29, 2011 by Joe Homps

Steven asks…

Pregnant and around someone with shingles?

I am in my first trimester and I work with a girl who has just found out that she has shingles. I know that this is contagious; however, what are the effects of me being around her and being pregnant?

admin answers:

Bring it up to your employer. They don’t want her getting all of their employees sick!

Sandy asks…

how long till shingles is not contagious?

I got diagnosed with shingles on thursday and need to attend a funeral next week, were there will be pregnant ladies, will i be ok to go or will i still be contagious

admin answers:

You should be ok, but just to safe check with your doctor.

William asks…

is shingles contagious?

A member of the family has been informed they have shingles, i’m worried as my daughter is 8 months pregnant, and on the 27th this month (june 2008) i am having a full knee replacement, i am also recovering from one which i had on the 22nd April 2008. thank you

admin answers:

If an adult or child is exposed to the herpes zoster virus and has not had chickenpox as a child or received the chickenpox vaccine, a severe case of chickenpox may develop, rather than shingles.
Until the shingles blisters scab over, avoid physical contact with:
* Anyone who’s never had chickenpox
* Anyone who has a weak immune system
* Newborns
* Pregnant women (A chickenpox infection can be dangerous for the developing baby.)

Donna asks…

Exposed to Shingles, Am I contagious?

I drove a co-worker to the ER yesterday. I drove him in my car and sat with him for a half an hour. I touched the medication he had with him. He also had a sinus infection and was coughing and sneezing near me. I just found out today that he has a sever case of shingles and he is currently quarentined at the hospital. Is it possible that I contracted the virus and am I currently contagious? I have had chicken pox in the past but I’m healthy so I’m not necessarily concerned about contracting it. I worried that I may pass it to other people. I called my GP and they told me to avoid my pregnant friends along the the real young and real old until I’m sure I don’t have it which could take up to 21 days before I know. Is this for real?! If I am contagious, how long will it take for me not to be?

admin answers:

No.

Shingles is reactivation of the virus which occurs with previous chicken pox.

The virus is not on the surface of the body but in the nerves, is reactivated in the nerve, and is no risk to others.

You are no risk to others. There is no risk to you.

…..

“Shingles is a disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus – the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you have chickenpox, the virus stays in your body. It may not cause problems for many years. As you get older, the virus may reappear as shingles.

Unlike chickenpox, you can’t catch shingles from someone who has it.”

http://vsearch.nlm.nih.gov/vivisimo/cgi-bin/query-meta?input-form=simple&v%3Asources=medlineplus-bundle&v%3Aproject=medlineplus&query=shingles+&x=0&y=0

Shingles is a disease that affects nerves and causes pain and blisters in adults. It is caused by the same varicella-zoster virus that causes chickenpox. After you recover from chickenpox, the virus does not leave your body, but continues to live in some nerve cells. For reasons that aren’t totally understood, the virus can become active instead of remaining inactive. When it’s activated, it produces shingles.

Just like chickenpox, people with shingles will feel sick and have a rash on their body or face. The major difference is that chickenpox is a childhood illness, while shingles targets older people. Most adults live with the virus in their body and never get shingles. But about one in five people who have had chickenpox will get shingles later in life—usually after the age of 50.

When the activated virus travels along the path of a nerve to the surface of the skin, a rash will appear. It usually shows up as a band on one side of the face or body. The word “shingles” comes from the Latin word for belt or girdle because often the rash is shaped like a belt.”

http://www.niapublications.org/agepages/shingles.asp

…..

You have no more or less risk of developing shingles yourself than you did before:
advanced age and HIV, both lowering the immune system increase the risk of shingles.

…

Daniel asks…

My grandfather has Shingles. Is he still contagious?

He’s had them for about a month now. The lesions and scabs are gone, but he is still experiencing pain in his neck and shoulders from them. His doctor said he could experience symptoms for up to a year or more, but I can’t imagine he’d be contagious that entire time. I am 8 weeks pregnant and am worried about being near him. I got chicken pox as a kid from my brother, but only had five bumps. The pediatrician said that was enough to build up my immunity, but I wanted to double-check before I see my grandfather this weekend. So, how long was/is he contagious?

admin answers:

There is no way your grandfather is contagious since all the lesions are gone. In general, one is contagious only until the lesions are scabbed over, which takes much less than 1 month. Also, I concur with your pediatrician that since you had chicken pox as a child, then you have nothing to worry about. You would still have antibodies to the virus (varicella) and your baby shares those antibodies with you. Even if you were exposed to your grandfather while he was contagious, your baby would not have been infected. If you have any doubts, you could also get a blood test to check for immunity.

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Cataract surgery and shingles vaccine

Posted on March 28, 2011 by Joe Homps

William asks…

My mother had cataract surgery on both eyes and there have been problems?

She is a healthy 75 year old with no history of medical problems, she goes in for surgery and the first eye winds up getting a scratch that had to be treated and now the second eye is painful and after watching it for a few days the Dr. says she has eye shingles, is this something that occurs a lot, she has had the shingles vaccine and the Dr. said that it works better on the body than the eye, this all sounds a little weird and this procedure was something she was dreading and now she is dealing with the aftermath, just wondering how common these issues are and what did others do to deal with it. thanks

admin answers:

Sorry to hear about your mother. Cataract surgery is generally well tolerated and adverse reactions occur in less than 1.5% of procedures. Shingles is the reactivation of the varicella virus which causes chicken pox. After we get chicken pox, the virus lives in nerve cells. The virus can become active again in a specific distribution causing a rash and pain known as shingles. This can occur in any location on the body, including the eye and surrounding skin. When shingles affects the eyes it is known as Herpes zoster ophthalmicus and this is one of the most serious types of shingles, because it could potentially lead to blindness without treatment. It is unrelated to the surgery. The shingles vaccine reduces the chance of getting shingles, but it does not completely eliminate it. Unfortunately it did not in your mother’s case. The shingles vaccine reduces the chance of shingles developing anywhere. I have never heard that the zoster vaccine is less effective in preventing shingles involving the eye and I am familiar with most of the studies about this. Perhaps her doctor knows something I don’t. Anyways, no this is not a normal post-operative course and sorry that your mother has gone through all of this.

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Treatment for herpes zoster

Posted on March 26, 2011 by Joe Homps

Linda asks…

what’s the treatment for herpes zoster?

admin answers:

There are several medications available to help reduce your discomfort. Unfortunately, there is no cure, but there is treatment.

1)There is a drug called Acyclovir which will lessen the severity and duration of your symptoms.

2)There is also another medication called Neurontin that can help to control any nerve pain you are experiencing from this infection.

3) There is a cream available that will help with the pain too. It’s called Zostrix. It contains a natural ingredient called capsaicin (believe it or not, it’s the stuff in hot peppers that makes them hot). It does work to lessen the pain of Shingles (Herpes Zoster).

4. Do NOT put cortisone cream on your rash. It can actually make things worse by lowering your immune response.

I suggest you see your doctor…especially if you have this rash occuring anywhere on your face, as it can cause serious damage (even blindness) if it gets in your eye.

And remember…you cannot give Shingles to another person. BUT, the fluid from the blisters can give a person Chicken Pox if they’ve never had Chicken Pox before…so keep away from pregnant women, children, and anyone else who may not have ever had Chicken Pox until the lesions are scabbed and dry.

Here is some general information on Shingles:
http://www.skinsite.com/info_herpes_zoster.htm

Lizzie asks…

anyone have any good advice for home treatments for zoster herpes, and can zoster herpes cause severe fever?

can zoster herpes cause severe fever, and does anyone have any good advice and home treatments for zoster herpes, thank you

admin answers:

Get valtrex home treatments dont work

Lisa asks…

Question on herpes zosters. Do you know of any treatment that might prevent blisters from developing?

Once in a while a get a herpes zoster on my neck, ususally around the same area. This happens when I am tired or stressed out. Does anyone know of any treatment that might prevent the blisters from developing or spreading if taken or used early enough? I woke up with 2 blisters this morning and don’t want to have to “hide” them in the middle of the summer.
I found something called “aeura” at the pharmacy. Did anybody use this? Did it work?
I am sure that I am not “jsut” having hives. These are blisters that swell up and fill with liquid. The nerve endings in that area of my skin become very sensitive and it really hurts….

admin answers:

If you go to your doctor, he/she can prescribe an anti-viral medication that you can take by mouth. You can keep the prescription around and as soon as you start to feel the tingle of the blisters starting, you begin taking the medicine. If you catch it early enough, the blisters may not surface. Even if the blisters do start, the medication can speed up the healing process and they won’t stay around as long as usual.

This medicine is called Acyclovir, it is only available with a doctor’s prescription. It works better than any topical lotion/cream that you get from the store. It works by stopping the virus from replicating. Herpes is a virus that lays dormant in your nerve root there and when your immune system is weak from stress/fatigue, the virus begins replicating, causing the blisters.

Good luck!

Maria asks…

Question about HERPES SIMPLEX, herpes zoster, skin fungus?

Have tried to make sense between herpes simplex and herpes zoster, but can’t seem to see the difference. I ask because someone in my family was diagnosed at first with having a herpes when a little spot started to come out in his arm nearly seven years ago. It is now all over his body, and though not really having had proper treatment for it, whenever he’s gone to doctors for other health reasons he’s been told it is a “skin fungus”.

What he has are pinkish, almost “not visible” roundish spots of different sizes, which flare up considerably after shower and/or at other times of the day….He’s had urinary tract problems (infections and chronic narrowness for at least 20 years). Is there any relation between these infections which seemed to have gotten worse a few years back, just at the same time he developed his first pink spot on the arm?

admin answers:

There is no cure for cold sores, nor is there a cure for the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that causes them. Most cold sores will go away on their own. However, medications may slightly reduce the duration of cold sores and sometimes prevent a future outbreak.

Treatment with medications depends on whether you are having a first outbreak, a recurrent outbreak, or you are trying to prevent future outbreaks.

When treating a first outbreak of cold sores, oral antiviral medications may reduce pain and slightly improve healing time.

For treatment of recurrent cold sores, the following medications may reduce the severity and duration of the outbreak: 2

Topical creams or ointments, which are available with or without a prescription, can reduce pain, itching, and healing time.
Oral antiviral medications, which are available by prescription only, are used when the first symptoms (such as burning or itching) develop. These medications have little effect once the sore develops.
Oral antivirals may also be taken daily to prevent recurring cold sores, especially in people who have frequent and painful outbreaks.

If you have a weakened immune system and develop cold sores, you may need higher doses of these medications to control your symptoms or daily doses to prevent outbreaks.

Although rare, children and adults with weakened immune systems may also need to take antibiotics during a severe episode of cold sores to treat bacterial infections that may develop.

Other treatments
The first episode of cold sores can be so painful that you may have difficulty eating, drinking, and sleeping. A child who has a fever and many mouth sores may need to be encouraged to drink water and other fluids to prevent dehydration.

Adults and older children with a painful first episode of cold sores may sometimes need a prescription-strength medicated mouth rinse to reduce pain.

Complementary medicine
No complementary medicines have been proven through scientific studies to be effective in the treatment or prevention of cold sores. However, several complementary treatments are available if you wish to try an alternative way to ease your symptoms.

Vitamin C, lysine supplements, and lemon balm are examples of complementary treatments that may provide some relief during a cold sore outbreak.

One study showed that zinc oxide/glycine topical cream may effectively treat cold sores and reduce the duration of the outbreak by up to 5 days. 3 The cream must be applied 4 times a day early in the course of the outbreak (within 24 hours of onset) for it to be effective. More studies are needed to confirm this result.

Michael asks…

what brings herpes zoster in children of age 5 and 12 years?

is there no exact treatment

admin answers:

There is no treatment for chicken pox/shingles all you can do is relieve the itching and let it run its corse

Posted in Q & A, Treatments for Shingles, Uncategorized | Leave a comment