Self-Care Tips for Dealing with Shingles

Shingles is a case of the varicella zoster virus that has reactivated after causing chickenpox decades earlier. Virtually every person over the age of 40 in the United States carries the virus, and their chances of developing shingles are approximately 1 in 3. For individuals over the age of 80, the odds increase to 1 in 2.

Characterized by a red, blistering rash and considerable discomfort, shingles (herpes zoster, or HZ) is consistently ranked among the most painful medical conditions experienced by humans. Early diagnosis and treatment with antivirals can not only shorten the course and lessen the impact of the disease, but also reduce the chances of developing the serious complication called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

The most effective approach is to begin antivirals within 3 days of the onset of the rash. There are also simple steps that shingles patients can take to care for their physical and mental well-being. Pharmacists can play a role in counseling on self-care tips for patients who are experiencing symptoms of shingles. 

Handling the Rash

Shingles begins with pain, itching, or tingling of the skin, followed within a few days by the eruption of a blistering rash, usually in a stripe along 1 side of the torso or face. The sores eventually break open, releasing a fluid that contains the virus.

Pain associated with the rash can be relieved with wet compresses, calamine lotion, and colloidal oatmeal baths. A thin layer of petroleum jelly covered by a non-stick cotton bandage can keep the skin safe and prevent the virus from spreading. Loose clothing made of natural fibers can also help patients feel more comfortable by lessening pressure on the rash.

Another concern is avoiding permanent skin damage, according to Marie Jhin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in San Francisco, California. “The shingles virus is very deep, and that’s why there’s a higher likelihood of scarring,” she told Drug Topics®. “The virus causes killing of the skin cells, or necrosis. You don’t want to touch or pick it because it’ll make the scars worse.”

Herbal Remedies

Some dietary supplements and herbal medicines are thought to help the body fight the HZ virus, as well as treat insomnia and anxiety related to the illness. The list includes:

• Melatonin
• St. John’s Wort
• Oregano, eucalyptus, tea tree, or chamomile oil
• Witch hazel
• Echinacea
• Lemon balm
• Green tea
• Essential fatty acids

Patients should be advised to consult medical providers before taking any supplements.

Diet and Physical Activity

A healthy diet is particularly important during an illness. Eating a nutritious, well-balanced variety of food helps boost the immune system and aids in healing.

Ingesting vitamins A, B12, C, and E can be beneficial for patients with shingles, as well as lysine, an amino acid that inhibits the growth of the HZ virus.

Lots of vegetables and fruits—particularly those that are green, red, orange, or yellow—along with protein-rich foods like eggs, red meat, and chicken are recommended. Cut back on foods that are high in saturated fat, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.

Stress-reducing light exercise is also advised. Suggestions include simple movements like walking, gentle stretching, or yoga.

Get Vaccinated 

A course of shingles can last 2 to 6 weeks and is considered to be healed when the blisters have dried up. Once that happens, individuals who are 50 years or older can be vaccinated with recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) (Shingrix; GlaxoSmithKline) against a future recurrence.

RZV was licensed by the FDA in 2017 to help protect against shingles. It has been shown in clinical trials to be over 90% effective in preventing the disease and related complications. RZV is included on the CDC’s Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule.