Is that rash shingles?
If your doctor diagnoses a painful rash as shingles, also known as herpes zoster, you're in for more pain. The virus inhabits nerves, and blisters arise near the affected nerves, making the skin especially sensitive. To combat pain, your doctor will prescribe a medicine to kill the virus—such as famciclovir (Famvir) or valacyclovir (Valtrex). That can help within three days of the start of the rash. Also helpful are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve); acetaminophen (Tylenol); or a stronger prescription pain medicine if necessary. The blisters will last for a few weeks, and the pain may last for months. In 10% of cases, pain may last even longer.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
