by Diana Howard

Created on: July 12, 2008   Last Updated: August 20, 2008

Shingles or what is known as Herpes Zoster is caused by a virus that produces itchy then raised painful sores that do damage, not only to the skin, but to nerves as well. Symptoms can last up to thirty days. These sores, besides being acutely painful, can cause scarring. Shingles can attack anyone who has had chickenpox (Herpes Zoster) and/or a weakened immune system. It is contagious to those who have not yet had chicken pox.

Symptoms begin with an itchy burning sensation, usually only on one side of your body or your face. Within a few days a painful, itchy, red, raised, rash will appear. Over the counter medications can help the sores heal and reduce scarring, however , Anti-Viral medications; acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex) or famciclovir (Famvir), may actually circumvent the onset of the disease.

Your primary care physician can diagnose Herpes Zoster, however, a dermatologist may be able to offer a wider variety of cutting edge treatments. There is a vaccine called the varicella vaccine (chicken pox) which may help prevent the disease, or you may try the new shingles vaccine Zostavax that was designed specifically for those sixty and over.
It is important to start Anti-Viral treatment within 72 hours of the onset of symptoms. Ideally, you should have one of these on hand to administer at the first sign of burning or itching. At the very least, they will speed healing and reduce pain. Your doctor may suggest corti-steroids, but these may produce complications and should be avoided unless the pain is severe. Make sure that you get plenty of rest and use OTC pain medication for relief while you are experiencing active shingles.

Shingles can produce complications, so it is important to treat symptoms early. The main problem appears to be residual nerve pain. Skin infections and blisters have also been reported and if the shingles appear on your face there is a risk of temporary vision or hearing loss. You may even experience paralysis of the facial muscles.

Nutrition, as always, plays a part in the prevention of Shingles as it does for most diseases. If you are prone to Shingles, eat plenty of fruits and veggies and make sure you get adequate amounts of B vitamins, by eating whole grains and legumes. Try to avoid stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, and do not smoke. Lighten up on meats and fatty fried foods. These cause the body stress and weaken the immune system.

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