Contents
Zapping Shingles: The Latest Treatments That Really Work
Published: Jul 11, 2024
Shingles can be a painful and debilitating condition, but effective treatments are available. Early intervention is key to managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Antiviral Medications: The First Line of Defense
Antiviral drugs are the cornerstone of shingles treatment. Medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir work by stopping the virus from multiplying. These drugs are most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing. They can speed up healing, reduce the severity of the rash, and help prevent complications like postherpetic neuralgia.
Pain Management: Taming the Discomfort
Pain is a common and often severe symptom of shingles. Treatment usually starts with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. For more severe pain, doctors may prescribe stronger medications such as opioids, or drugs typically used for depression or seizures that also help with nerve pain. Topical treatments like lidocaine patches can also provide relief.
Specialized Treatments for Complications
In some cases, shingles can lead to complications that require additional treatments. For postherpetic neuralgia, doctors may use nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation. If shingles affects the eye, antiviral eye drops and steroid eye drops may be necessary. For rare cases of disseminated zoster, hospitalization and intravenous antiviral treatment may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideally within 72 hours of rash onset for best results.
Some find relief with cool compresses or oatmeal baths.
Typically 7 days, but may be longer in severe cases.
Most are mild, like nausea or headache.
The Road to Recovery
With prompt and appropriate treatment, most people recover well from shingles and can avoid serious complications.
References
- Dworkin RH, Johnson RW, Breuer J, et al. Recommendations for the management of herpes zoster. Clin Infect Dis 2007; 44 Suppl 1:S1.
- Wood MJ, Kay R, Dworkin RH, et al. Oral acyclovir therapy accelerates pain resolution in patients with herpes zoster: a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials. Clin Infect Dis 1996; 22:341.
- Cohen JI, Brunell PA, Straus SE, Krause PR. Recent advances in varicella-zoster virus infection. Ann Intern Med 1999; 130:922.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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