The varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes the chicken pox, causes shingles. Symptoms of the skin condition include severe painful rashes, fluid-filled blisters, numbness and itching, according to MayoClinic.com. Shingles can appear anywhere on the body, though symptoms are more likely seen from one side of the chest wrapped around to the back. Pain associated with shingles may be so intense the condition is often initially misdiagnosed for symptoms associated with the heart, kidneys or lungs, reports the clinic. Though no cure exists for the disorder, treatments focus on pain management and relief.
Step 1
Fight the infection and pain by taking oral or intravenous antiviral medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir, suggests MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. Start medications within 24 hours of the initial shingles symptoms and before blisters appear.
Step 2
Find relief through over-the-counter medications. Mild pain may be managed by taking ibuprofen or naproxen. Always eat a light snack when taking these pain relievers to avoid gastric complications. Apply calamine lotion to itchy areas on the skin. Antihistamines also relieve the discomfort associated with itching; look for medications including diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl.
Step 3
Take prescription pain medications if the pain is severe enough. Doctors may prescribe narcotic painkillers, such as oxycodone, according to MayoClinic.com. Additional oral medications include antidepressants and anticonvulsant medications. Though not approved for shingles, these drugs do relieve symptoms of the condition. Doctors prescribe corticosteroids to some people; however, the medications are not effective in everyone. These strong medications reduce swelling and inflammation.
Step 4
Apply topical numbing agents to the skin. Use products with lidocain as an active ingredient. Lidocaine is available in gel, cream, patch or spray form to decrease discomfort. Soak a washcloth in a basin filled with ice water. Ring out most of the water and apply to blistered areas to create a cool compress, suggests MayoClinic.com. The clinic also suggests taking a cool bath for additional pain relief.
Step 5
Relax and rest as much as possible to decrease pain and stress to the body. Listen to soft music or participate in yoga or tai chi. Mediation and deep breathing exercises may also help pain symptoms.
Tips and Warnings
- Shingles lasts about two to three weeks and rarely recurs, according to MedlinePlus.
- Immediately seek medical attention if shingles is suspected. Shingles affecting the eyes may cause blindness or irreversible eye damage. People with immune disorders or the elderly may suffer from severe complications related to the condition.
Things You'll Need
- Antiviral medications
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Calamine lotion
- Antihistamines
- Prescription pain medications
- Corticosteroids
- Topical numbing agents with lidocaine
- Basin
- Ice water
- Wash cloth
- Soft music
