Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a viral infection that leaves an extremely painful rash on the body and face. Caused by the same virus as the chicken pox, the varicella-zoster virus, the virus may lie dormant in the spinal cord and brain tissue for years after experiencing the chicken pox. The virus may reactivate in the form of shingles, according to the Mayo Clinic. Initial symptoms include pain, burning, numbness and tingling, followed by a rash. However, some people are diagnosed with shingles without developing a rash. Facial symptoms of shingles are serious because they can greatly affect the eyes. Symptoms of facial shingles include headache, weakness of one side of the face and facial drooping. Blisters near or close to the eye require immediate medical attention.
Step 1
Prepare for your appointment by writing down all symptoms of shingles you are experiencing, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Include information about past and current medical problems so medical professionals have a detailed medical history. Write down any questions you may have for the doctor.
Step 2
Show the medical professional any rashes or blisters that have developed. Be prepared for the doctor to scrape the blister tissue to further examine in the laboratory.
Step 3
Begin oral antiviral drugs within 72 hours of initial shingles rash. Shingles can last a few weeks; taking oral therapy at the first sign of shingles can greatly reduce this time. The Mayo Clinic lists acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex) and famciclovir (Famvir) as common antiviral prescribed.
Step 4
Control the pain caused by shingles, if you have extreme pain. Take medications prescribed by medical professionals if the pain of shingles is severe. Apply numbing agents to the skin, such as lidocaine.
Step 5
Apply cold compresses to the face and other areas affected by shingles. Soak a washcloth in Burow's solution, which you can buy at pharmacies and grocery stores. Chill the solution in the refrigerator until ready to use. Do not break open or rub blisters when applying compresses to avoid spreading the infection. Avoid warm compresses as the rash and blisters will increase in itching.
Step 6
Prevent itching by using over-the-counter antihistamine medications, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Wear loose clothing and cover all blisters with gauze, suggests University of Maryland Medical Center. Taking a bath in oatmeal or applying calamine lotion will also decrease itching. Make an oatmeal paste by crushing oatmeal in a clean coffee grinder. Add a small amount of water until a paste forms. Apply to the facial area as needed for itch relief.
Things You'll Need
- Lidocaine
- Washcloth
- Burow's solution
- Antihistamines
- Gauze
- Calamine lotion
- Oatmeal
- Coffee grinder
