Caring For Your Shingles Rash After An Ointment Treatment

You may have thought you were done with chickenpox years ago, but the virus can reemerge in the form of shingles. When this happens, you'll want to head to a dermatologist to make sure that you receive a treatment that can help make the symptoms more mild. However, after you have applied a shingle care ointment (like Shingle Ease), there are several steps you should take afterward. 

Stay Cool

You can further cool the rash through an ice pack and through a cool bath. Cleaning your rash regularly will reduce the risk of an infection and speed up your recovery. After doing this, allow your skin to dry and then apply a shingle care ointment. Apply the ointment very gently and avoid picking at or scratching the rash. 

Don't Irritate the Rash

Make sure not to irritate the rash. Wear loose, non-stick, sterile bandages. Wear clothing that is loose-fitting. If you find yourself often scratching the rash, consider wearing gloves or anything else that would make it harder to scratch the rash. Scratching slows down the healing process because the act of scratching damages a protective barrier that prevents the area from becoming infected. Bacteria has an easier time invading scratched skin and may cause an infection. 

Break Up Your Routine

Fortunately, applying a cold pack to an area that is itchy can help numb the area and make it easier to stop scratching. The goal of stopping scratching behaviors is to break your routine. You might be in the habit of scratching everyday when you feel an itch, often doing so reflexively. By treating the itching and pain, you'll be less likely to scratch your rash. 

Be Mindful of When You Scratch

Oftentimes, like with other habits, scratching is associated with other activities. For example, you might discover that you scratch your rash while watching TV or at dinner. Instead, you should find some activity to do with your hands. Then, if you attempt to scratch an itch, you're more likely to notice what you're doing. 

Be Careful What You Eat

The food you eat can affect how long your shingles symptoms will persist. Make sure to have a diet with vitamins that include vitamins A, B-12, C and F. Also consume a diet that contains lysine. Avoid foods that contain large amounts of sugar and fat. Avoid carbohydrates, chocolate and nuts. Shingles can make you feel miserable, but the right treatments will help.