Health Tips for January 25

Health Tip: Understanding Shingles

Shingles is caused by the herpes zoster virus, the same one that causes chickenpox.

Shingles, characterized by a painful, blistering rash, occurs only in people who have had chickenpox or have had the chickenpox vaccine.

After a person has chickenpox (usually as a child), the virus that causes it stays in the body. In most people, the immune system keeps the virus in check. But in some people as they age and their immune system weakens, the virus re-emerges and causes shingles.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers additional information about shingles:

* It usually occurs in people aged 50 and older.
* It may affect younger people with weakened immune systems, such as those with cancer or HIV.
* Shingles pain may last three months or longer.
* Blisters usually crust and fall off after 7 to 10 days.
* Your doctor may opt for a prescription medication including acyclovir (brand name: Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir) or valacyclovir (Valtrex).
* Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help. Never take aspirin if you have shingles, since this can lead to a rare but dangerous disorder called Reye's syndrome.

Health Tip: The Itch of Chickenpox

Chickenpox is caused by a virus that most often affects children.

Symptoms, including the tell-tale itchy rash, usually go away without treatment. But there are steps you can take to help alleviate the discomfort.

The University of Maryland Medical Center offers these suggestions:

* Never give children aspirin to treat chickenpox symptoms, as it can trigger a very dangerous condition called Reye syndrome. Acetaminophen can be taken for pain.
* Take a lukewarm bath every few hours, or apply a cool compress to the skin. Try adding oatmeal to the bath to soothe irritated skin.
* After bathing, don't rub the skin with a towel, just pat it dry.
* Apply calamine lotion to the lesions, but avoid applying the lotion on the face.
* For painful mouth blisters, eat soft, mild and bland foods, and beverages.
* Ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter itch- and pain-relieving creams.