by Growing Needs | Jul 26, 2024 | Caregivers Support, Caregiving, Community, Resources
Shingles is a type of viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) that causes chickenpox. If one had previously contracted chickenpox, the shingles virus may continue to live on, in an inactive state in the nerves linked to your spinal cord and thus may be reactivated.
This condition is commonly associated with painful rashes which can appear anywhere on the body. Shingles typically show up on one side of the body, concentrated in a specific area where the rash usually surfaces as a cluster of small bumps. These bumps would turn into blisters filled with fluid and are typically painful to the touch.
Here are some common symptoms to watch out for if you suspect yourself or your loved one might be down with a bout of shingles:
Whilst there is no cure for shingles, early detection of these symptoms and heading to a doctor immediately can help greatly in the treatment and recovery process.
Seniors are at greater risk of contracting shingles and here’s why:
Managing the condition won’t be an easy one and often would need the help of caregivers to aid physically and also in providing emotional support. Most cases of shingles last 2-6 weeks.
There’s no cure for shingles but antiviral drugs may speed up the healing and lower risks of complications. Valacyclovir and acyclovir are antiviral drugs that if you start taking within 72 hours of getting the shingles rash, it can help make your skin rash and pain go away quicker. Though there could be side effects such as nausea and headaches, these are typically mild and are not a big cause for concern.
Shingles cause pain and inflammation. Doctors might prescribe over-the-counter painkillers such as Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen and Naproxen to help manage the condition.
Taking a cold shower or using cold compressors such as ice packs wrapped in a handkerchief on the blisters can provide some relief for the condition.
Scarring is usually mild, consisting of a patchy white mark. About half the cases of shingles will leave a scar. This is also more common in elderly people. Hard or raised scarring is much less common. You can rub moisturiser into the skin once crusts have fallen off as this may help prevent scarring. Some people find using Vitamin E cream and keeping the affected area out of the sun are useful.
Seniors who have underlying medical conditions need to pay extra attention to this virus and is not something to be taken lightly. Even though Shingles is much less contagious than chickenpox, someone with the virus can spread it if there are open wounds. For someone who has never had chickenpox or whose immune system is down, the person is at heightened risk of contracting the virus.
Growing Needs grew out of our own encounters with caring for our aging parents and reflecting on the Growing Needs that we ourselves would face as we advance in years. We hope to build a community that will learn, share and contribute towards caring for the growing needs of our loved ones.
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