Some strategies shown to help people reduce stress include meditation, getting plenty of rest, and exercise.
The important thing is to find what works for you.
Physical
The rash and blisters associated with shingles can be highly uncomfortable.
Nusha Ashjaee / Verywell
For most people, over-the-counter medications and home remedies can be used to manage these symptoms effectively.
Keep the area clean using soap and warm (but not hot) water.
In those instances, healthcare providers might recommend using medications such as gabapentin or pregabalin to manage the pain.
Verywell / Jessica OlahOwner
Social
The pain and discomfort brought on by shingles can impact more than just your physical well-being.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
If that happens, it’s important to know what options might be available to you while you recover.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
These visits have the added benefit of providing social support, which can also be beneficial in your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
You don’t exactly “get” shingles.
Shingles pain,rash, itching, and other symptoms typically clear up within three to five weeks.
See your healthcare provider as soon as you notice symptoms.
Swift treatment also lowers the risk of complications.
PHN affects as many as 20% of people who have shingles, especially those 60 and older.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following tips for dealing with shingles skin symptoms:
No.
Ahmad AH, Zakaria R.Pain in times of stress.Malays J Med Sci.
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National Institute on Aging.Shingles.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About shingles (herpes zoster).
2016;16:14. doi:10.1186/s12877-016-0180-y
Sturgeon JA, Zautra AJ.Social pain and physical pain: shared paths to resilience.Pain Manag.
2016;6(1):63-74. doi:10.2217/pmt.15.56
Cleveland Clinic.Shingles.
2016;9:447-454. doi:10.2147/JMDH.S106340
American Academy of Dermatology.Shingles: Tips for managing shingles.
New York Department of Health.Shingles.
