The common symptoms of shingles include fever, headache, facial itching, and loss of appetite. If you are experiencing any or all of these symptoms, then you are definitely having shingles. However, if you are experiencing a more general malaise, you may just have an allergy.
Shingles is caused by the varicella virus that is often referred to as the chicken pox virus. You will most likely notice that there is a fever with the shingles symptoms. There may also be pain and swelling in the area where the blisters are located. The symptoms will typically last from several days to several weeks, depending on how severe the condition.
A more severe case of shingles will result in a red bump that protrudes from the top of your cheek or ear. This is known as a herpes zoster rash. It may also contain fluid and blisters. Your doctor will most likely need to take a sample of fluid from you for tests.
There are different treatments for shingles. Depending on the severity of your rash, the doctor may prescribe either corticosteroids or antibiotics.
These over-the-counter medications can help with symptoms, but they do not completely eliminate the virus. Corticosteroids will reduce inflammation, reduce blistering, and reduce the pain associated with shingles. These medications should not be used for more than a week or two, as you should consult your doctor if they should be taken longer.
Some doctors prescribe prescription antibiotics for severe cases. These antibiotics can be used to kill the virus itself. They can also treat any side effects that occur in your body after the infection has been treated. Antibiotics will be used daily and are usually given within one week.
In many cases, alternative medicine, such as homeopathic treatment, is used to treat symptoms. Homeopathic remedies relieve symptoms and also help the body to heal itself.
Remember, it's always best to seek medical attention before starting treatment for your symptoms. Be sure to get a diagnosis from your doctor to make sure you don't have a more serious medical condition. which is much more difficult and more expensive to treat.
Shingles can be avoided, but it all starts with proper hygiene. Always wash your hands and do not touch objects infected with the virus. You should always watch out for blisters and sores.
If you have skin rash, you should always see your doctor. This is especially true if the rash is painful, itchy, or scaly.
If you are prone to contracting the virus from other people, you should also be aware of the most common causes of infection. Sharing towels or anything else with an infected person can lead to infection with the virus.
Infectious diseases are always a problem. One way to protect yourself from this is to always practice safe sex.
If you are experiencing a serious condition, the best thing you can do for yourself is to stay in bed. When the symptoms do come back, you'll be in better shape and more likely to recover.
Shingles can be very painful and uncomfortable. The rash may be located on the face or in another area of the body. It could also be located on the chest. Shingles on face symptoms include:
A rash that develops around the nose or eyes may include:
If you or a loved one has any of these serious conditions, consult your doctor as soon as possible. This can keep you from having to deal with more problems.