What are the symptoms of shingles. How is shingles diagnosed and treated. What self-care measures can help manage shingles symptoms. How can you prevent shingles complications. What are the long-term effects of shingles. Who is at risk for developing shingles. How effective are shingles vaccines.

Understanding Shingles: Causes and Symptoms

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus – the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve tissues near the spinal cord and brain. Years later, the virus may reactivate as shingles.

The primary symptoms of shingles include:

• Pain, burning, or tingling sensation in a specific area
• Sensitivity to touch
• A red rash that appears a few days after the pain
• Fluid-filled blisters that break open and crust over
• Itching

Does shingles always present with a rash? While a rash is a hallmark sign of shingles, in rare cases, some individuals may experience pain without developing a visible rash, a condition known as zoster sine herpete.

Diagnosis and Early Treatment of Shingles

Early diagnosis and treatment of shingles are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications. Healthcare providers typically diagnose shingles based on the appearance of the rash and the patient’s reported symptoms. In some cases, a sample from the blisters may be taken for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis.

Antiviral medications are the primary treatment for shingles. These drugs include:

• Acyclovir
• Valacyclovir
• Famciclovir

Is early treatment essential for shingles? Yes, starting antiviral therapy within 72 hours of rash onset can significantly reduce the severity and duration of the infection, as well as lower the risk of complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.

Self-Care Measures for Managing Shingles Symptoms

While medical treatment is essential, several self-care measures can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing:

1. Apply cool, wet compresses to reduce pain and itching
2. Take lukewarm baths with colloidal oatmeal to soothe the skin
3. Use calamine lotion to relieve itching
4. Wear loose-fitting, natural fiber clothing to reduce skin irritation
5. Keep the rash clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections

Can over-the-counter pain relievers help with shingles pain? Yes, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can help manage the pain associated with shingles. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

Protecting the Rash and Preventing Spread

Proper care of the shingles rash is crucial not only for comfort but also to prevent the spread of the virus to others. Here are some important steps:

• Cover the rash with a thin layer of petroleum jelly and a non-stick bandage
• Avoid scratching or picking at the blisters
• Wash hands frequently, especially after touching the affected area
• Avoid close contact with others until the blisters have crusted over

Is it possible to transmit shingles to others? While shingles itself isn’t contagious, the varicella-zoster virus can be transmitted to individuals who haven’t had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, potentially causing chickenpox in these individuals.

Preventing Complications of Shingles

Shingles can lead to several complications, with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) being the most common. PHN is characterized by persistent pain in the area where the shingles rash occurred, even after the rash has healed.

Other potential complications include:

• Vision problems if shingles affects the eye (ophthalmic shingles)
• Hearing loss or balance problems if it affects the ear (Ramsay Hunt syndrome)
• Skin infections
• Neurological problems

How can the risk of shingles complications be reduced? Early treatment with antiviral medications, proper self-care, and regular follow-ups with healthcare providers can significantly lower the risk of developing complications from shingles.

Long-Term Effects and Management of Shingles

While most cases of shingles resolve within a few weeks, some individuals may experience long-term effects, particularly those who develop PHN. Managing these long-term effects often requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Pain management strategies, including medications and topical treatments
2. Physical therapy to improve mobility and reduce pain
3. Psychological support to cope with chronic pain
4. Alternative therapies such as acupuncture or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Can shingles recur? While it’s possible to develop shingles more than once, it’s relatively rare. However, individuals with weakened immune systems may be at higher risk for recurrence.

Risk Factors and Prevention of Shingles

Several factors can increase an individual’s risk of developing shingles:

• Age (risk increases after 50)
• Weakened immune system due to illness or medications
• Chronic stress
• History of certain cancers

The most effective way to prevent shingles is through vaccination. Two vaccines are currently available:

1. Shingrix: Recommended for adults 50 and older, even if they’ve had shingles or received the older vaccine
2. Zostavax: No longer available for use in the United States as of November 18, 2020

How effective are shingles vaccines? The Shingrix vaccine is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and postherpetic neuralgia in adults 50 and older. Its effectiveness remains high even in older adults who are at greatest risk for shingles.

Special Considerations for High-Risk Groups

Certain groups require special attention when it comes to shingles prevention and management:

Older Adults

Adults over 50 are at higher risk for developing shingles and its complications. They may also experience more severe symptoms and longer recovery times. Regular check-ups and timely vaccination are crucial for this group.

Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplants are at increased risk for shingles. They may require more aggressive treatment and closer monitoring.

Pregnant Women

While shingles during pregnancy is rare, it can occur. Pregnant women with shingles should be closely monitored to prevent complications for both mother and baby.

Are there any contraindications for shingles vaccines? The Shingrix vaccine is not recommended for individuals who have had a severe allergic reaction to any of its components. Pregnant women and people with active shingles should wait to get vaccinated.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Shingles Management

Ongoing research is continually enhancing our understanding of shingles and improving treatment options. Some areas of current investigation include:

• Development of new antiviral medications with improved efficacy
• Novel approaches to managing postherpetic neuralgia
• Exploration of the relationship between shingles and other health conditions
• Refinement of vaccination strategies to provide broader protection

What advancements can we expect in shingles treatment? Future treatments may include more targeted antiviral therapies, innovative pain management techniques, and potentially even methods to prevent the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus.

In conclusion, while shingles can be a painful and distressing condition, early recognition, prompt treatment, and appropriate self-care measures can significantly improve outcomes. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for prevention, particularly for older adults and those at higher risk. As research progresses, we can look forward to even better strategies for managing and preventing this challenging condition.

Shingles: Care Instructions | Kaiser Permanente

Skip Navigation

Overview

Shingles (herpes zoster) causes pain and a blistered rash. The rash can appear anywhere on the body but will be on only one side of the body, the left or right. It will be in a band, a strip, or a small area. The pain can be very severe. Shingles can also cause tingling or itching in the area of the rash. The blisters scab over after a few days and heal in 2 to 4 weeks. Medicines can help you feel better and may help prevent more serious problems caused by shingles.

Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. When you have chickenpox, the virus gets into your nerve roots and stays there (becomes dormant) long after you get over the chickenpox. If the virus becomes active again, it can cause shingles.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. Antiviral medicine helps you get better faster.
• Try not to scratch or pick at the blisters.
• Keep the blisters moist until they heal over. One way to do this is to cover them with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a nonstick bandage.
• Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Avoid close contact with people until the blisters have healed. It is very important for you to avoid contact with anyone who has never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. Young babies and anyone who is pregnant or has a hard time fighting infection (such as someone with HIV, diabetes, or cancer) are especially at risk.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have a new or higher fever.
• You have a severe headache and a stiff neck.
• You lose the ability to think clearly.
• The rash spreads to your forehead, nose, eyes, or eyelids.
• You have eye pain, or your vision gets worse.
• You have new pain in your face, or you can’t move the muscles in your face.
• Blisters spread to new parts of your body.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• The rash has not healed after 2 to 4 weeks.
• You still have pain after the rash has healed.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter X176 in the search box to learn more about “Shingles: Care Instructions”.

Self-Care Tips for Dealing with Shingles

Shingles is a case of the varicella zoster virus that has reactivated after causing chickenpox decades earlier. Virtually every person over the age of 40 in the United States carries the virus, and their chances of developing shingles are approximately 1 in 3. For individuals over the age of 80, the odds increase to 1 in 2.

Characterized by a red, blistering rash and considerable discomfort, shingles (herpes zoster, or HZ) is consistently ranked among the most painful medical conditions experienced by humans. Early diagnosis and treatment with antivirals can not only shorten the course and lessen the impact of the disease, but also reduce the chances of developing the serious complication called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

The most effective approach is to begin antivirals within 3 days of the onset of the rash. There are also simple steps that shingles patients can take to care for their physical and mental well-being. Pharmacists can play a role in counseling on self-care tips for patients who are experiencing symptoms of shingles. 

Handling the Rash

Shingles begins with pain, itching, or tingling of the skin, followed within a few days by the eruption of a blistering rash, usually in a stripe along 1 side of the torso or face. The sores eventually break open, releasing a fluid that contains the virus.

Pain associated with the rash can be relieved with wet compresses, calamine lotion, and colloidal oatmeal baths. A thin layer of petroleum jelly covered by a non-stick cotton bandage can keep the skin safe and prevent the virus from spreading. Loose clothing made of natural fibers can also help patients feel more comfortable by lessening pressure on the rash.

Another concern is avoiding permanent skin damage, according to Marie Jhin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in San Francisco, California. “The shingles virus is very deep, and that’s why there’s a higher likelihood of scarring,” she told Drug Topics®. “The virus causes killing of the skin cells, or necrosis. You don’t want to touch or pick it because it’ll make the scars worse.”

Herbal Remedies

Some dietary supplements and herbal medicines are thought to help the body fight the HZ virus, as well as treat insomnia and anxiety related to the illness. The list includes:

• Melatonin
• St. John’s Wort
• Oregano, eucalyptus, tea tree, or chamomile oil
• Witch hazel
• Echinacea
• Lemon balm
• Green tea
• Essential fatty acids

Patients should be advised to consult medical providers before taking any supplements.

Diet and Physical Activity

A healthy diet is particularly important during an illness. Eating a nutritious, well-balanced variety of food helps boost the immune system and aids in healing.

Ingesting vitamins A, B12, C, and E can be beneficial for patients with shingles, as well as lysine, an amino acid that inhibits the growth of the HZ virus.

Lots of vegetables and fruits—particularly those that are green, red, orange, or yellow—along with protein-rich foods like eggs, red meat, and chicken are recommended. Cut back on foods that are high in saturated fat, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.

Stress-reducing light exercise is also advised. Suggestions include simple movements like walking, gentle stretching, or yoga.

Get Vaccinated 

A course of shingles can last 2 to 6 weeks and is considered to be healed when the blisters have dried up. Once that happens, individuals who are 50 years or older can be vaccinated with recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) (Shingrix; GlaxoSmithKline) against a future recurrence.

RZV was licensed by the FDA in 2017 to help protect against shingles. It has been shown in clinical trials to be over 90% effective in preventing the disease and related complications. RZV is included on the CDC’s Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule.

Maintenance and care of flexible roofing

Home >>

Soft roofing >

Maintenance and care

Please note!

Due to changes in the exchange rate, please clarify the prices of goods.

Call or make an application on the site, they will call you back.

Sincerely, Sales Managers.

Catalog of soft tiles

Flexible roofing was probably invented for those people who prefer practical modern materials at a not very high price. Indeed, soft tiles have a whole list of advantages that allow its manufacturers to take a stable position among competitors.

The light weight of soft tiles is combined with sufficient strength due to its multilayer structure. A variety of shapes and colors of roofing material helps to implement complex architectural structures and compositions, and the speed of laying this type of roof does not in the least reduce the main requirement for the roof – its tightness.

Well-known global manufacturers of bituminous tiles declare the real possibility of its thirty-year warranty operation. Such a significant period can be a decisive moment for a hesitant buyer. The fact that caring for it is quite simple and does not involve any complex manipulations can tilt the scales even more in the direction of roofing tiles, rather, on the contrary, these are certain restrictions for its owners, who are not yet accustomed to dealing with a delicate surface.

However, it is necessary to start taking care of the roofing material even at the time of its installation, since the main rules written in the instructions initially eliminate accidental and unnecessary problems during operation.

So, for example, soft tiles are best laid in the warm season, when the sun contributes to the maximum melting of the self-adhesive layer, which is designed to ensure the waterproofing properties of the roof. Also, the base on which the laying is carried out must certainly be dry.

If we talk specifically about roof care, we can highlight the following points: -it’s not worth it, so as not to damage it;

if the amount of accumulated snow on the roof causes any danger, it should be removed, excluding the traditional iron shovels, in addition, the snow must be immediately dumped on the ground, and not on the underlying sections of the roof.

In general, it can be stated that bituminous tiles withstand atmospheric fluctuations almost without damage, therefore, periodic checks can only be a pleasant reason for experiencing aesthetic pleasure from contemplating the harmony of color and quality, which will be complemented by a pleasant feeling from the constant awareness of the fact of correctly invested money.

Thus, high-quality shingles are not just a bargain, but also a reason for a good mood.

How to take care of the roof? – PARASOL

How to take care of the roof?

The new roof, regardless of the type of coating, looks impressive and spectacular. Beautiful colors, perfect gloss or matt, evenly spaced rows of tiles – everything is perfect. Unfortunately, even if roofing materials are of high quality, this does not mean that they are invulnerable. Over time, they lose their original appearance. If we do not react in time, pollution can cause great damage to the appearance and functionality of the roof.

You must take care of the roof. Not only construction issues and protection from moisture are important. Aesthetic concerns are equally important – roof coverings lose color over time, become faded, tiles may crack or warp. Moisture also has an important effect – if the water from the roof is not drained properly, it not only penetrates under the roof, but also lies on the roof, which negatively affects any type of roof.

In some places, especially near wooded areas, moss may appear on the tiles. Therefore, it is necessary to check the roof regularly, both after the winter season and after the summer. In the spring, we must remove all the dirt and damage that appeared on the roof during the winter. Therefore, roof cleaning is always an impeccable type of roofing. The method of cleaning the roof depends on the roofing material and area.

Cement-sand tiles

The frequency of cleaning cement-sand tiles varies depending on the type of coating. On ordinary tiles, various types of pollution begin to spread quite quickly. In contrast, shingles coated with a special coating clean themselves to a large extent.

In the shade, moss appears faster
Tiles covered with glaze are less polluted, and dust and dirt are washed away by rain – they simply drain into gutters and downpipes. Of course, this does not mean that coated shingles always look like new. Sooner or later, her time will come for cleaning. It is worth paying attention to this when our roof is in the shade of other buildings or tall trees. As a result, rather quickly, moss begins to appear on the tiles, which leads to the loss of the original color.

Various impurities and purification methods

The method of cleaning a roof covered with cement-sand tiles also depends on what kind of dirt has appeared on it. If we live in an area where acid rain often occurs, we must take into account that along with water, various chemical compounds are deposited on our roof, which can react with the materials used in the manufacture of tiles. In this case, it is necessary to apply a special protective preparation to the tiles, which will remove even permanent dirt.

Remove moss with biocides
If the roof is overgrown with moss, algae or fungi, biocides must be used. Whatever product we apply to the roof, it should be washed with warm water at an appropriate pressure – high enough to remove all the preparation, but not too high so as not to damage the surface of the tile when cleaning. Otherwise, we will get the opposite effect of the intended one. This cleaning is best left to a professional company experienced in roof maintenance.

Ceramic tiles

Cleaning ceramic tiles is carried out in the same way as cement-sand tiles. The difference is that you need to be a little more careful about this because the surface of the tile is easily damaged. Ceramics, unlike cement, is much more fragile and subject to destructive factors.

If we buy ceramic tiles from a good manufacturer, we can be sure that they are strong and durable. Unfortunately, this does not mean that they are perfect. They are also prone to growing moss, especially when we live near a forest or our property is surrounded by many trees.

Natural tiles are the most susceptible

It is also worth remembering that experts consider ceramic tiles the most difficult to maintain and maintain. This mainly concerns their porous structure, through which dirt, sand particles and moisture penetrate inside the tiles. All this threatens not only the appearance on the tiles, but also their structure – pollution does not settle from above and penetrates inside. Of course, this problem applies to natural ceramic tiles that are not coated with any additional protective layer. The situation is different from engobe or glazed tiles. When choosing roof coverings, you must choose between the love of naturalness and the durability of tiles. The more natural and natural, the less durable.

Better protected, less polluted
However, even glazed tiles are affected by moss growth. What then? It is best to think about proper maintenance at the stage of laying a new coating and protect it in advance with an appropriate impregnating solution. The impregnation will protect the tiles from moisture and mold and will be more resistant to moss growth. They will also be easier to clean up later. Unfortunately, when building a house, hardly anyone thinks that beautiful-looking tiles will not always look as aesthetically pleasing over time. We forget about proper protection, which means that after a short time we may notice mold or moss on the roof. Even these first signs of attack by moisture and plants must be destroyed – the later we react, the more difficult it will be to clean the tiles.

Pressurized water cleaning
The best way to remove unwanted green plaque is to hire professionals with specialized equipment. Most often, they use devices that use high-pressure water. It removes unwanted dirt and plaque, and the surface of the tile looks like new again. However, this does not mean that mosses or lichens have been permanently removed. Thus, only the outer layer is washed off. What has soaked into the tile must be removed by more drastic methods using biocides. Such preparations will not only destroy mosses and lichens, but also impregnate the tiles, which will further minimize and reduce their appearance to almost zero.

Metal tile

The metal tile is also exposed to atmospheric and mechanical factors. They can become dirty and covered with dust, leaves, to varying degrees, depending on the region in which we live. Where there is a well-developed industry, much more pollution must be expected. Although the sheet metal coating is smooth and it seems that all the dirt should run off with the rain, in fact, some impurities are deposited on the coating, which is not only an aesthetic problem, but also a functional one.

Metal can crack from dirt
Contaminated metal roofing sheets have limited strength and are more susceptible to corrosion processes. Sheet metal, nitrogen and chlorine, as well as soot, are the most harmful to metal roofing. When settling on the roof, they react with water and moisture, and are also exposed to ultraviolet radiation. This leads to the formation of internal stress and subsequent cracking of the coating. In short, a sheet metal roof must be cleaned and maintained regularly.

Cleaning is not aggressive
A metal roof needs to be cleaned regularly. However, we must forget about strong detergents and harsh chemicals. Best and safest is a soft brush that will remove dirt and pressurized water, making it easy to wash everything off the roof. If the roof is very dirty, you can use mild detergents. Stains that do not want to be cleaned can be tried to remove with a cloth soaked in alcohol.

Regardless of which cleaning method you choose, it’s worth checking to see if it will affect the organic coating of the roof tiles. To do this, it is worth cleaning a small area on a less visible part of the roof, and even better – on a sheet that did not fit on the roof or on the trim that remained after installation.