How to Deal With the Pain of Shingles

Managing shingles (herpes zoster), a condition caused by a recurrence of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), can be difficult. In addition to causing a rash that blisters, there is pain that is in many cases quite severe and may be long lasting. A number of different techniques are used to manage the pain of shingles and to help prevent the condition from developing into chronic pain. Affected individuals should work with their doctors to make sure that all avenues are being pursued to alleviate their pain.

Things You'll Need

• Medications as prescribed

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Instructions

Managing Shingles Pain

• 1

  Seek medical treatment as soon as possible if you believe you are developing shingles. Seeking immediate treatment is important because, as the Mayo Clinic reports, the antiviral drugs used to limit the duration of the outbreak are most effective if they are begun within three days of the development of symptoms. Symptoms include pain followed by a blistering rash on one side of your body following the path of the affected nerve.

• 2

  Take antiviral medications and corticosteroids as prescribed by your doctor. Corticosteroids are used to relieve swelling in the affected nerve, thus acting to relieve pain at its source. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), taking corticosteroids during shingles may also limit a person's chances of developing postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a chronic pain condition that lasts after shingles outbreak has passed.

• 3

  Work with your doctor to create a pain relief regimen. This may include either over-the-counter or prescription pain medications as well as topical agents like lidocaine and capsaicin. The AAFP recommends that people with shingles take pain relievers on a regular schedule instead of as needed so that they do not feel pain between doses.

• 4

  Consult a physician about pain that lasts after your shingles sores have gone away. This is called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and the pain can be severe and last for months or even years. Additional treatments, like tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsant medications may be prescribed by your doctor to manage this condition, according to the AAFP.

• 5

  Experiment with in-home techniques to deal with the pain of shingles. The Mayo Clinic recommends affected individuals rest, avoid stressful activities, do tai chi and engage in other relaxation techniques and enjoyable hobbies to help keep their mind off of pain. Cool baths and compresses may also help relieve discomfort associated with shingles.