Shingles, a viral infection which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, produces a pretty painful rash. The rash appears across the torso, normally on one side or the other, and can be treated to reduce the duration of the rash.
It's important to see your doctor as soon as you notice the appearance of shingles symptoms on your body, and it is even more important to follow up after treatment. For many sufferers of shingles, nerve damage causes pain and discomfort which remains long after the virus has left the body. This is called postherpetic neuralgia. Fortunately, there are home remedies for shingles nerve pain which have been proven to be effective.
Muscle Rub:
Not all muscle rubs are useful in cases of postherpetic neuralgia, but when seeking out home remedies for shingles nerve pain, capsaicin has been found to be highly effective. Creams which include this ingredient from the hot chili pepper, warm the skin and ease pain and discomfort. It is important to be very careful during application, however, as the capsaicin can cause quite a sting on the eyes and open cuts.
Herbs and Teas:
There are a variety of natural herbs that can be taken to ease the pain caused by nerve damage following shingles. Valerian root, meadowsweet,and corydalis are some of the most highly used herbal remedies available. Each of these has properties that ease discomfort, aid in anxiety, and in some cases, treat allergies.
Before using any herb, no matter how natural and harmless it may seem, it is important to run it by your doctor. Some herbs, such as valerian root, must be taken in exact dosages. Even plants can be harmful if not properly administered.
Barley Grass:
As it does with so many other areas of life, nutrition plays a huge role in cell regeneration and even the management of nerve pain. One ingredient which nutritionists suggest in home remedies for shingles nerve pain is barley grass. Juice made from this grass contains high levels of B vitamins, folic acid, carotene, and more.
Barley grass has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times, when it was primarily served to treat inflammation and infections.
TENS:
Not as natural as other home remedies for shingles nerve pain, but just as effective, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) units can be used at home to relieve pain and discomfort. The product works by sending gentle bursts of electricity through electrodes which are placed on the skin around areas where damaged nerves are sending pain signals.
Most TENS units require a prescription from a doctor, but there are some low frequency units which do not require any medical permission for use. Whether you use a unit which requires a prescription or not, you should still speak to your doctor before trying this method of treatment. If used incorrectly, you could damage skin and nerves further.
Eating a healthy diet, exercising, and getting enough water daily have shown promise in the management of nerve pain following shingles. It may not cure it completely, but taking good care of yourself allows your body to better heal itself.