|
Knowledge gives a person many options for managing shingles and
they can then personally take charge of the effect this disease is having on their life. |
| Return to Main Shingles Page | |
Nutrient |
Product Suggestion |
Vitamins:
|
Shingles Kit
|
Amino Acids:
|
|
Nutrient Cofactors:
|
- GET PLENTY OF LYSINE: High amounts of lysine taken over the course of the shingles infection may inhibit the replication of the virus that causes shingles without any of the side effects of other treatments. Lysine can be found in beef, pork, eggs and tofu but it may be necessary to supplement in order to get the large amounts of lysine necessary to obtain these beneficial effects.
- WATCH YOUR DIET: Include foods like brewer's yeast, brown rice, garlic, raw fruits and vegetables, and whole grains in the diet. Avoid such foods as chocolate, nuts, and seeds since they contain arginine which counteracts the beneficial effects of lysine on shingles.
Lifestyle Changes
- RELAX: Stress reduces the immune system's ability to fight off infections such as shingles, so it is important learn to relax and avoid (as much as possible) stressful situations.
- DON'T SCRATCH: Gently clean the blisters while bathing, but otherwise avoid touching or scratching them.
IF NECESSARY, SEE AN OPHTHALMOLOGIST: If shingles are present on the face or near the eyes see an ophthalmologist immediately since these ophthalmic herpes zoster can cause blindness.
- TRY TOPICAL OINTMENTS: Ointments such as silvadene, Aspercreme, and capsaicin can help to reduce the pain of shingles. Cold packs applied over cotton may also be useful.
- WEAR LIGHT CLOTHING: Wear clothing that won't rub against the infected skin or use an "artificial skin" spray to minimize pain caused by friction.
IF NECESSARY, SEE AN OPHTHALMOLOGIST: If shingles are present on the face or near the eyes see an ophthalmologist immediately since these ophthalmic herpes zoster can cause blindness.
Medical Options and Precautions
TREATMENT:
- MEDICATIONS: Antiviral medications, mainly Zovirax (acyclovir), Famvir (famciclovir), and Valtrex (valacyclovir) are used to treat shingles. These medications are most effective if used within 72 hours of the onset of the rash. If first used after this time period, their effectiveness declines sharply. Early treatment of shingles is critical since it can reduce the severity of the disease as well as reduce the risk of developing post-herpetic neuralgia. Other medications that are used to treat shingles include Prednisone to relieve inflammation, other prescription pain relievers, low doses of antidepressants, and sometimes a nerve block. As with most prescription medications these drugs have numerous unpleasant side effects. For more information on these side effects Click Here.