Shingles is a very common skin condition. However, patients struggle to find effective treatments. We understand the frustration of dealing with shingles. At the Trillium Clinic, our solutions are designed to address shingles at its cause, helping your skin heal and giving you the clear, healthy pain-free skin you desire. Begin your advanced shingles treatments today, and say goodbye to the persistent pain of shingles.
What is Shingles
The primary symptom of shingles is a painful, blistering rash that typically appears in a band or a small area on one side of the body. The asymmetry of the rash is a hallmark of shingles. The rash commonly occurs on the torso, but it can also affect the face, eyes, or other parts of the body. Additional symptoms may include:
Pain: The rash is often accompanied by a sharp, burning, or shooting pain in the affected area.
Itching: Itching or tingling may occur before the rash appears.
Blisters: Fluid-filled blisters develop and eventually crust over.
Flu-like symptoms: Some individuals may experience fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light.
What Causes Shingles
Shingles cannot be transmitted directly from one person to another. However, a person who has never had chickenpox before can contract the varicella-zoster virus by coming into direct contact with the fluid from shingles blisters. This exposure would cause chickenpox, not shingles.
Shingles is more common in older adults, typically occurring in individuals over 50 years of age.
People with weakened immune systems due to certain medical conditions, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer, or those taking immunosuppressive medications are at higher risk.
How is Shingles treated
The treatment of shingles aims to alleviate symptoms, speed up healing, and prevent complications. It may involve:
Antiviral medications: Prescription antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, can help reduce the severity and duration of the infection when taken early in the course of the illness.
Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help alleviate pain and discomfort. In some cases, prescription medications for nerve pain may be necessary.
Topical treatments: Antiviral creams may be used to soothe the rash and reduce itching.
Rest and self-care: Getting plenty of rest, maintaining good hygiene, and keeping the affected area clean can aid in the healing process.
Vaccination: The shingles vaccine is available and recommended for individuals aged 50 and older to reduce the risk of developing shingles or to decrease the severity of the illness if it does occur.
Embark on your journey to radiant skin
If you suspect you have shingles make an appointment here to see one of the providers at the Trillium Clinic in Chapel Hill. We will provide an accurate diagnosis, recommend appropriate treatment options, and offer guidance on managing symptoms and preventing complications. We are currently taking new patients from Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Pittsboro, Mebane, Durham, Burlington, Cary, and surrounding cities, who suffer from shingles, call us today to discuss appropriate treatment options.