Shingles is a viral infection that causes a blistering rash. Although shingles isn’t life-threatening, it is contagious. Typically, shingles only affect a small section on one side of your body. To eliminate the virus it has to run its course, but fortunately, there are things you can do to manage any discomfort and protect yourself from potential scars.
In this post, we share information on shingles, including:
- Signs and symptoms of shingles
- Can you use manuka honey to treat a shingles rash?
- How to soothe shingles symptoms at home
Read on to learn more about shingles – and what you can do to soothe your painful symptoms.
What is Shingles?
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. Once you’ve had chickenpox, the virus stays in your body. This means it could reactivate years later, as shingles. Shingles, and its accompanying rash, can appear anywhere on the body. If your rash is widespread, painful, or near your eye, contact your local doctor as soon as possible. While a shingles rash usually appears on the chest and tummy, it can develop anywhere on the body, including the eyes, face, and genitals.
Signs and Symptoms of Shingles
The first sign of shingles will likely be a tingly or painful feeling on your skin. You may also generally feel unwell or have a headache. A few days later, the rash will appear. A shingles rash only affects one side of the body. If both sides are infected, it is unlikely to be shingles.
Shingles symptoms can include:
- Burning or tingling sensation on the skin
- Itching
- Fluid-filled blisters that may open and ooze
- A red rash – this can be harder to see on darker skin
It’s also possible to experience a fever, headache, sensitivity to light, and fatigue.
Manuka honey and Shingles: Does it Help?
Manuka honey is renowned for its natural antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Compared to regular types of honey, it contains the highest levels of both. This fact makes it an ideal choice when battling the shingles virus and healing wounds. For example, topical application can help reduce the severity of the blisters and rash. It can also help soothe itchiness and pain, which can help prevent scarring from scratching or picking at the skin.
Applying manuka honey directly to your body can be a sticky mess. Fortunately, manuka honey treatments, like our Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream, are designed to reduce inflammation, soothe itchiness, and manage pain. Its non-greasy formula is easy to use anywhere on your body. You can even use it to combat the dryness associated with shingles or to heal scars from scratching.
Other At-home Remedies for your Skin
Unfortunately, the only way to get rid of shingles is to let the virus run its course. Try easing the pain and discomfort associated with shingles by following these at-home tips.
To start with, keep the rash clean and dry. Properly looking after the affected area can help prevent infection.
We also recommend wearing breathable clothing like our Remedywear™ Long Sleeve Shirt for adults and kids. Made with TENCEL and embedded with zinc oxide, these form-fitting tops leave the skin feeling nourished and protected from irritants. Because they fit like a second skin, they’re perfect for wearing underneath regular clothing without added bulk.
Finally, you can apply a cold compress to the affected area to help reduce any swelling or inflammation.
Soothe your Shingles Rash Today
If you’re looking to soothe your itchy shingles rash, give the above remedies – including manuka honey – a try.
