What is Shingles?
Shingles is actually a viral infection that causes a rash in the nervous system and skin cells. It is also referred to as herpes zoster and comes from the varicella zoster virus. One of the most prominent signs of shingles is a rash that can develop either on the face or body. Blisters are also known to develop, however, they are not always present. Other more general signs and symptoms such as fever or headaches can be present as well.
The varicella zoster virus actually causes chicken pox for younger children and later reappears as shingles as individuals age. The virus may lay dormant within your nervous system until the immune system is compromised which could be due to chemotherapy, stress, or AIDS, but the most common reason is aging. While reactivation can occur at any time during one's lifetime, the immune system is unable to compete against the virus as it only gets weaker with time. Instead of exhibiting chickenpox again, reactivation of this virus leads to Shingles.
How do you treat Shingles?
Most natural shingles treatments are aimed at reducing symptomatic effects of the viral infection. Usually treatments address shingles pain relief heavily and reduce other disabling or uncomfortable symptoms. The actual virus itself can be targeted as well with the use of antivirals, steroids, and analgesics. Steroids are not traditionally used and are found to be ineffective in some individuals. There are also some side effects associated with drug treatments that should also be considered.
It's also useful to be consistently aware of your body's status so you can notice the rashes forming immediately and consult your doctor to identify it and begin prevention methods as soon as possible. You will also want to be certain to control the itching discomfort, as the rash will aggravate shingles intensely if itched.
Deciding which Shingles Treatment Method to Use
It is important to contact your physician for the best treatment options for you. Medical information on the internet can be a great resource for directing individuals towards their conditions and treatments available, but ultimately treatment should be discussed and decided between your physician and yourself. It is also important to note the various side effects associated with each treatment method and to discuss which method would be most beneficial to you. Natural treatments are available as well if severe side effects are cause for worry. Lastly, proper hygiene of the infected area should be practiced regardless of which treatment method you and your physician choose. To prevent further symptoms, start treatment as soon as possible.
Shingles is actually a viral infection that causes a rash in the nervous system and skin cells. It is also referred to as herpes zoster and comes from the varicella zoster virus. One of the most prominent signs of shingles is a rash that can develop either on the face or body. Blisters are also known to develop, however, they are not always present. Other more general signs and symptoms such as fever or headaches can be present as well.
The varicella zoster virus actually causes chicken pox for younger children and later reappears as shingles as individuals age. The virus may lay dormant within your nervous system until the immune system is compromised which could be due to chemotherapy, stress, or AIDS, but the most common reason is aging. While reactivation can occur at any time during one's lifetime, the immune system is unable to compete against the virus as it only gets weaker with time. Instead of exhibiting chickenpox again, reactivation of this virus leads to Shingles.
How do you treat Shingles?
Most natural shingles treatments are aimed at reducing symptomatic effects of the viral infection. Usually treatments address shingles pain relief heavily and reduce other disabling or uncomfortable symptoms. The actual virus itself can be targeted as well with the use of antivirals, steroids, and analgesics. Steroids are not traditionally used and are found to be ineffective in some individuals. There are also some side effects associated with drug treatments that should also be considered.
It's also useful to be consistently aware of your body's status so you can notice the rashes forming immediately and consult your doctor to identify it and begin prevention methods as soon as possible. You will also want to be certain to control the itching discomfort, as the rash will aggravate shingles intensely if itched.
Deciding which Shingles Treatment Method to Use
It is important to contact your physician for the best treatment options for you. Medical information on the internet can be a great resource for directing individuals towards their conditions and treatments available, but ultimately treatment should be discussed and decided between your physician and yourself. It is also important to note the various side effects associated with each treatment method and to discuss which method would be most beneficial to you. Natural treatments are available as well if severe side effects are cause for worry. Lastly, proper hygiene of the infected area should be practiced regardless of which treatment method you and your physician choose. To prevent further symptoms, start treatment as soon as possible.
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If you are interested in a natural shingles treatment you can find more information online. For more information about other treatments visit: herpes zoster natural treatments.
