Shingles is a condition that affects the nerves of the body and affect those that have had the chicken pox virus at some point in their lives. Shingles is a very itchy and painful condition that can be found anywhere on the body, but it is only ever on one side (left or right) of the body. If you have had chicken pox, the virus will lay dormant in the body, only to come out at a later time in your life. It usually affects the older generation, but it can also affect those that are under a lot of stress or those that are pregnant. If you have shingles, or suspect you have shingles, you should visit your dermatologist for help. Read on for some tips on what you can do about your shingles to help alleviate the pain.

Apply A Topical Anti-Itch Cream

Apply a topical anti-itch cream to your shingles rash to help alleviate the itchiness. If you scratch your shingles, it may alleviate the itch for a few minutes, only to leave you with pain afterwards. You could also scratch so much that you are left with scars. Apply the topical anti-itch cream to help alleviate the itchiness and apply it as often as you need. 

Take An Over-The-Counter Pain Reliever

Take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help with any pain you may feel from this viral rash. Since it affects your nerves, you are going to feel pain deep in your body, even in areas where you don't necessarily have a rash. Take the pain reliever as needed throughout the day, using the manufacturer's recommendation for dosage. If you are in severe pain, you should talk to your dermatologist about a pain reliever that is stronger that requires a prescription.

Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Be sure to wear loose-fitting clothing, especially on areas where you have the rash to prevent it from getting irritated by the clothing, and to prevent any pain or irritation on your nerves as well. Anything too constricting can cause you to feel pain, so avoid anything that may rub on your skin too much.

If you have shingles, you should seek help from your dermatologist to get the proper treatment to help you heal faster and to prevent you from being in too much pain. If you don't catch your shingles early enough, they could spread that much further throughout the body, and take much longer to heal.