Around 20 percent of people who've had chicken pox caused by the herpes zoster virus will eventually suffer from shingles, a painful, blistery rash that erupts on one side of your body, typically in a band-like formation that affects your torso or face, says integrative physician Dr. Andrew Weil. Even after you recover from chicken pox, the virus that causes it remains dormant in your body. Although there's no one trigger that causes herpes zoster to reactivate, shingles tends to affect people with weakened immune systems and those over the age of 50. Although most of the time, an episode of shingles occurs only once and resolves on their own in a few weeks, the watery blisters can cause excruciating pain. There are prescription medications that can help shingles heal faster, but medical experts state that most of the time, shingles can be treated using simple, inexpensive home remedies.
Rest and Relaxation
If shingles cause you a lot of pain, this will affect your activity level. Mayo Clinic experts state that shingles can cause weakness and lethargy, in which case it's best to take it easy. Get ample amounts of rest and avoid doing anything strenuous. The Mayo Clinic suggests using the relaxation technique that works best for you, such as listening to music. Engage in relaxing activities, such as reading, focusing on your favorite hobby or watching a movie on TV.
Cool Compress
Applying a cool compress to shingles blisters can decrease itching and pain, as can taking a cool bath. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests soaking the compress in a mixture of water and white vinegar before applying it to the affected area.
Over-the-Counter Remedies
Remedies to help you treat shingles may already be in your medicine cabinet. To help you cope with pain, the Mayo Clinic and AAFP advise taking a nonprescription pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil). Medicated lotions such as Benadryl and Caladryl can be applied to blisters to reduce itching. Taking an over-the-counter antihistamine may also be helpful in reducing itching, says the Mayo Clinic. Weil, who often offers alternative treatments for minor medical conditions, states that he's unaware of any vitamin or natural supplement that's an effective shingles remedy.
Prescription Remedies
Prescription oral antiviral medications can help shingles heal more quickly if taken within three days after you first experience symptoms, says the Mayo Clinic. These medications, which include acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir, are the same used to treat oral and genital herpes. If pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe an oral narcotic or a stronger topical medication, such as lidocaine. Certain tricyclic antidepressants and anticonsulvants may also be prescribed for shingles pain.
Vaccination
The shingles vaccine is recommended for those 60 years of age and older who've had chicken pox, says the AAFP. It won't affect active shingles, nor it is guaranteed to prevent shingles entirely; however, it can be helpful for those who've had shingles who wish to avoid a repeat performance. The shingles vaccine offers protection for at least six years, says the AAFP.
