Shingles

Shingles is a viral condition that presents itself with an outward rash that is known to cause extreme pain in some people.

It can produce a band of blisters that appear from the middle of the back around to the chest. These blisters may also appear on the face, neck and even scalp.

Also known as herpes zoster, shingles is caused by the very same virus responsible for chicken pox.

It is possible for people who have had chicken pox as children to face an outbreak of shingles later in life.

The symptoms of this condition include:

• Tingling
• Numbness and pain in portions of the body
• Rash
• Fluid-filled blisters
• Fever
• Chills
• Stomach pain
• Headaches

Itching is also a common symptom of shingles.

Risk factors for shingles include previous exposure to chicken pox and age. This condition most commonly presents in people over the age of 60.

It is also not uncommon in people who suffer from weakened immune systems, thanks to conditions like AIDS.

Although an outbreak of shingles generally only lasts a few weeks and will remedy itself over time, medical intervention or home remedies are often called for.

Since the pain can be quite extreme, symptomatic treatments are often suggested.

To get rid of shingles and its symptoms, many turn to natural cures, which can prove very useful.

Natural Cures for Shingles:

There are a variety of natural cures for shingles that can lessen symptoms and sometimes remove them.

They range from over-the-counter medications to herbal treatments. Learning how to remove shingles symptoms might not be completely feasible, but home remedies can make a difference in severity.

The options include:

Pain Relievers:

Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin and ibuprofen can reduce pain and assist with swelling.

This home remedy is commonly suggested by medical professionals for managing shingles’ symptoms.

Anti-Itch Creams:

Calamine lotion and other anti-itch creams can be used topically as a home remedy for the symptoms of shingles.

In most cases, hydrocortisone and antihistamine products can have a beneficial effect.

Bathing:

Washing the blisters with plain soap and water can assist in lessening the symptoms.

It is also often recommended that people with shingles use compresses of white vinegar and water directly on the rash.

Oatmeal baths can also help as a natural cure to lessen itching.

Lemon:

This home remedy for shingles calls for making a tea of dried lemon leaves and water. This is then applied directly to the rash.

St. John’s Wort:

This herb can reduce tension that can go along with the pain of shingles and help as an anti-viral agent, as well.