Shingles Bumps
What are Shingles Bumps?
Shingles bumps, also known as herpes zoster, are painful skin rashes caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. They usually appear after an episode of chickenpox, but they can also occur without an episode of chickenpox if you’ve already been exposed to the virus. Shingles bumps can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks and can be very uncomfortable.
Symptoms of Shingles Bumps
There are several key symptoms of shingles bumps. These include:
- Painful, burning rashes: These rashes form along a nerve or a nerve pathway and can cause severe burning pain. They are usually found in a small area on one side of the body, but can spread over large portions.
- Swelling: The area around the rashes can swell, resulting in redness and inflammation.
- Itching: You may feel intense itching in the area around the rash in addition to the burning sensation.
- Flu-like symptoms: You may also experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell.
Treating Shingles Bumps
The best treatment for shingles bumps is to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Your doctor can prescribe antiviral medications which can help reduce the severity of the symptoms, as well as reduce the length of time they last.
In addition to taking prescribed medications, there are some things you can do at home to alleviate the symptoms of shingles bumps. These include:
- Keep the area clean:Wash the affected area regularly with a gentle soap and warm water to help reduce the risk of infection.
- Avoid touching the area: Avoid scratching or picking at the rash as this can cause further irritation.
- Apply a cool compress: Using a cold compress or damp cloth can help reduce the itching and burning sensation.
- Take oatmeal baths: Taking oatmeal baths can relieve itching and help to soothe the skin.
When treating shingles bumps, it is important to remember to stay calm and to be patient as it can take a little time for the rash to heal. With the right treatment, shingles bumps can be managed effectively and the symptoms can be alleviated.
