Shingles are a form of the chicken pox virus experienced for the second time during adulthood. Also called herpes zoster, shingles causes painful rashes and blisters with treatable symptoms but no real cure.
Naked
Clothing may irritate already sensitive skin effected by shingles. Wearing loose clothes or none at all will reduce instance of irritation and inflammation in the area of the rash.
Cold Compresses
Applying a cold damp cloth to the shingle's rash brings cooling relief and reduces painful flare ups. Doctors advise against applying anything hot or abbrasive to the surface as it may only make the situation worse.
Itch Control
Control the powerful itch caused by shingles to reduce the impulse to scratch. Taking over the counter antihistamine pills, soaking in an oatmeal bath, or covering the effected areas in calamine may reduce the itching sensation.
Pain Relief
The pain associated with shingles is often excruciating and unbearable. Over the counter anti-inflammatory pain medications like ibuprofen are often effective in treating the pain as well as the source in the early stages of shingles.
Herbal Remedies
The eastern world has for many years relied on healing herbs and homeopathic remedies to counter the symptoms of shingles. St John's wart and cream made from the heat source of chili peppers are now being studied by western medicine to help shingles sufferers.
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