What foods should be avoided during shingles. How can diet impact shingles symptoms. Which nutrients are beneficial for shingles recovery. Are there specific dietary recommendations for managing shingles.

Understanding Shingles and Its Dietary Implications

Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, can be a painful and debilitating condition. While medication is the primary treatment, diet can play a crucial role in managing symptoms and supporting recovery. Understanding which foods to avoid and which to consume can make a significant difference in the healing process.

Foods to Avoid During Shingles Outbreak

When dealing with shingles, certain foods may exacerbate symptoms or interfere with the healing process. It’s essential to be mindful of your diet and avoid the following:

• Arginine-rich foods
• Foods high in sugar
• Processed and refined carbohydrates
• Saturated fats
• Certain amino acids

Arginine-Rich Foods: A Potential Trigger

Arginine is an amino acid that may stimulate the replication of the shingles virus. Foods high in arginine include:

• Nuts and seeds
• Beans and lentils
• Soybeans and tofu
• Gelatin
• Canned tuna
• Chicken
• Whole grain wheat flour
• Raw garlic and onion
• Chocolate syrup

Does this mean you should completely eliminate these foods from your diet? Not necessarily. Moderation is key, and consulting with a healthcare professional can help you determine the right balance for your specific case.

Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates: The Hidden Culprits

Foods and beverages high in sugar content should be limited during a shingles outbreak. This includes:

• Sodas and sweetened beverages
• Candies and sweets
• Baked goods
• Processed snacks

Why are these foods problematic? High sugar intake can potentially weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off the shingles virus effectively.

Beneficial Foods for Shingles Recovery

While it’s important to know what to avoid, focusing on nutrient-rich foods can support your body’s healing process. Consider incorporating the following into your diet:

• Orange and yellow fruits
• Leafy green vegetables
• Lean red meat
• Eggs (in moderation)
• Chicken
• Wild-caught fish
• Dairy products
• Whole grains

These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can boost your immune system and aid in recovery.

The Power of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is particularly beneficial for shingles patients. It helps boost immunity and accelerates skin healing. Foods rich in Vitamin C include:

• Citrus fruits
• Berries
• Kiwi
• Bell peppers
• Broccoli

How much Vitamin C should you consume daily? The recommended daily intake for adults is between 65 to 90 mg, but during a shingles outbreak, higher doses may be beneficial under medical supervision.

The Role of Lysine in Managing Shingles

Lysine is an amino acid that may help counteract the effects of arginine. While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that lysine supplementation could help manage shingles symptoms. Foods high in lysine include:

• Fish
• Chicken
• Eggs
• Cheese
• Soybeans
• Spirulina

Is lysine supplementation necessary for everyone with shingles? Not always. A balanced diet often provides sufficient lysine, but in some cases, supplementation might be recommended by a healthcare provider.

Hydration: A Crucial Aspect of Shingles Management

Staying hydrated is essential when dealing with shingles. Proper hydration supports your immune system and helps your body flush out toxins. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Other hydrating options include:

• Herbal teas
• Fresh vegetable juices
• Coconut water
• Bone broth

Why is hydration so important during a shingles outbreak? Adequate fluid intake helps maintain skin elasticity, which can be beneficial when dealing with shingles blisters. It also supports overall immune function, crucial for fighting the virus.

The Impact of Alcohol and Caffeine on Shingles

During a shingles outbreak, it’s advisable to limit or avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine consumption. Both can potentially:

• Dehydrate the body
• Interfere with sleep patterns
• Weaken the immune system

How long should you avoid alcohol when you have shingles? It’s best to abstain from alcohol until your symptoms have significantly improved and you’ve completed any prescribed medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Probiotic-Rich Foods: Supporting Gut Health and Immunity

Probiotics can play a crucial role in supporting your immune system during a shingles outbreak. Probiotic-rich foods include:

• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Kombucha

How do probiotics help with shingles? They support gut health, which is closely linked to immune function. A healthy gut microbiome can enhance your body’s ability to fight off the shingles virus and manage inflammation.

The Potential of Prebiotic Foods

In addition to probiotics, prebiotic foods can also support gut health. These include:

• Garlic
• Onions
• Leeks
• Asparagus
• Bananas

Prebiotics serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, helping to maintain a healthy digestive system and, by extension, a robust immune response.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods and Their Role in Shingles Management

Inflammation is a key component of the pain and discomfort associated with shingles. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet may help alleviate symptoms. Consider adding:

• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Turmeric
• Ginger
• Berries
• Leafy greens
• Nuts (in moderation, considering arginine content)

How do these foods combat inflammation? They contain compounds like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that can help reduce inflammatory responses in the body.

The Potential of Herbal Teas

Certain herbal teas may offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties beneficial for shingles patients:

• Green tea
• Chamomile tea
• Echinacea tea
• Licorice root tea

While these teas can be a soothing addition to your diet, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using them medicinally, especially if you’re taking any medications.

The Importance of Balanced Nutrition During Shingles Recovery

While focusing on specific foods to eat or avoid is important, maintaining overall balanced nutrition is crucial for shingles recovery. A well-rounded diet should include:

• Lean proteins
• Whole grains
• A variety of fruits and vegetables
• Healthy fats
• Adequate hydration

Why is balanced nutrition so important during shingles? A diverse, nutrient-rich diet supports overall health and immune function, providing your body with the resources it needs to fight the virus and heal.

The Role of Portion Control

While focusing on nutritious foods, it’s also important to practice portion control. Overeating, even healthy foods, can put stress on your digestive system and potentially divert energy from healing processes.

Customizing Your Diet: Individual Needs and Sensitivities

It’s important to remember that dietary needs can vary from person to person, especially when dealing with a condition like shingles. Factors to consider include:

• Pre-existing health conditions
• Allergies or food sensitivities
• Medications and potential interactions
• Personal nutritional needs

How can you determine the best diet for your individual case of shingles? Consulting with a registered dietitian or your healthcare provider can help you create a personalized nutrition plan that supports your recovery while taking into account your unique health profile.

The Importance of Food Journaling

Keeping a food journal during your shingles outbreak can be incredibly helpful. It allows you to:

• Track which foods seem to exacerbate or alleviate symptoms
• Ensure you’re getting a balanced diet
• Share detailed information with your healthcare provider

A food journal can be a simple notebook or a smartphone app – the key is consistency in recording your meals and any noticeable effects on your symptoms.

Long-Term Dietary Considerations for Shingles Prevention

While dietary changes are particularly important during an active shingles outbreak, maintaining a healthy diet can also play a role in preventing future occurrences. Long-term dietary habits to consider include:

• Consistently consuming immune-boosting foods
• Limiting processed and high-sugar foods
• Ensuring adequate intake of vitamins and minerals
• Maintaining a healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

Can diet alone prevent shingles recurrence? While a healthy diet is beneficial, it’s not a guarantee against shingles. It should be part of a broader health strategy that includes stress management, regular exercise, and following your healthcare provider’s recommendations.

The Role of Supplements

In some cases, dietary supplements may be recommended to support your immune system and overall health. Common supplements for shingles prevention and management include:

• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin D
• Zinc
• Vitamin C

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as they can interact with medications or have unwanted side effects if not taken appropriately.

The Connection Between Stress, Diet, and Shingles

Stress is known to be a potential trigger for shingles outbreaks, and diet can play a role in stress management. Consider incorporating stress-reducing foods into your diet, such as:

• Complex carbohydrates (whole grains, vegetables)
• Foods rich in magnesium (leafy greens, nuts, seeds)
• Omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds)
• Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut)

How does diet impact stress levels? Certain nutrients can help regulate stress hormones and support neurotransmitter production, potentially reducing the likelihood of stress-induced shingles outbreaks.

The Importance of Mindful Eating

Practicing mindful eating can also contribute to stress reduction and overall well-being. This involves:

• Eating slowly and without distractions
• Paying attention to hunger and fullness cues
• Appreciating the sensory aspects of food
• Choosing foods that nourish both body and mind

Mindful eating can help reduce stress around meals and promote better digestion, potentially supporting your body’s ability to manage and recover from shingles.

Can you eat eggs when you have shingles?

Patients with shingles infection or lesions should avoid excess arginine (an amino acid) in their diet. Food sources of arginine to avoid include nuts and seeds, beans and lentils, soybeans and tofu, gelatin, canned tuna, chicken, egg, whole grain wheat flour, raw garlic and onion, and chocolate syrup.

Click to see full answer.

People also ask, what should you not eat when you have shingles?

However, you should avoid certain foods if you have shingles. Foods to avoid include: food and juices with high amounts of sugar. arginine-rich foods (including chocolate, gelatin, and nuts)

5. Dietary remedies

• orange and yellow fruits.
• leafy green vegetables.
• red meat.
• eggs.
• chicken.
• wild-caught fish.
• dairy.
• whole grains.

Also Know, what should you not do when you have shingles? If you have the shingles rash, do not share towels or flannels, go swimming, or play contact sports. This will help prevent the virus being passed on to someone who has not had chickenpox. You should also avoid work or school if your rash is weeping (oozing fluid) and cannot be covered.

Accordingly, can foods trigger shingles?

Avoid food and juices that are high in sugar and saturated fat, refined carbohydrates, and foods like chocolate, gelatin, nuts, and seeds that contain arginine, an amino acid that can cause the HZ virus to reproduce. The best way to manage shingles is to protect against developing them at all.

Are bananas good for shingles?

Foods to include are; brewer’s yeast, sweet potatoes, bananas, grass-fed beef, cultured dairy, eggs, organic chicken, whole grains, and vegetables. Vitamin C rich foods – Vitamin C helps to boost your immunity and also speed up the skin’s healing.

Can you eat eggs when you have shingles?

Can you eat eggs when you have shingles? | Yes, eggs are safe to eat when you have shingles. However, if you want to take other precautions, it is recommended that you do not eat raw eggs, as their egg white can cause an allergic reaction. The most common symptoms of allergic reactions to eggs include itching and hives, and you should see a doctor if these symptoms occur. With this information, you should be able to make an informed decision about eating eggs when you have shingles.

There’s a lot of myths out there about eating eggs when you have shingles. You can’t eat them, and you can’t drink them, but you can certainly eat them! The only question is, how to do you do it? The truth is that eggs are always good for you. They are full of protein and vitamins, and they are a convenient and tasty way to get your protein intake up. That being said, there’s one thing you should know about eggs when you have shingles.

Chicken eggs do have the potential to cause problems for people with shingles. According to the Mayo Clinic, shingles is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It affects the nerves that control facial sensation, and for this reason, it can be very painful. The virus is widespread and there are several types, which can affect either the nerves in the skin or the nerves that control the eyes, ears, mouth, or throat. According to the University of Michigan Center for Communicable Disease Control (CDC), a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the virus spread through the skin easily and was unlikely to be transmitted through direct contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils. As a result

Excess arginine (an amino acid) in the diet should be avoided by patients with shingles infection or lesions. Nuts and seeds, beans and lentils, soybeans and tofu, gelatin, canned tuna, chicken, egg, whole grain wheat flour, raw garlic and onion, and chocolate syrup are all high in arginine.

What should you avoid eating if you have shingles, was another question.

If you have shingles, though, you should avoid specific foods. Foods and drinks containing a lot of sugar should be avoided. foods high in arginine (including chocolate, gelatin, and nuts) 5. Dietary supplements

• Fruits that are orange and yellow.
• green leafy veggies
• a kind of red meat
• eggs.
• chicken.
• Fish that has been captured in the wild.
• dairy.
• grains in their natural state

What should you avoid doing if you have shingles, for example? If you have shingles, avoid sharing towels or flannels, going swimming, or participating in contact sports. This will assist to keep the virus from spreading to those who have never had chickenpox. If your rash is weeping (oozing fluid) and cannot be covered, you should avoid going to work or school.

Can foods cause shingles in this way?

Avoid meals and drinks rich in sugar and saturated fat, processed carbohydrates, and foods containing arginine, an amino acid that may stimulate the HZ virus to proliferate, such as chocolate, gelatin, nuts, and seeds. The easiest approach to deal with shingles is to avoid getting them in the first place.

Is it true that bananas may help with shingles?

Brewer’s yeast, sweet potatoes, bananas, grass-fed beef, cultured dairy, eggs, organic poultry, whole grains, and veggies are some of the foods to incorporate. Vitamin C-rich meals — Vitamin C boosts your immunity and speeds up the healing process of your skin.

Answers to Related Questions

Is it safe to sleep with someone who has shingles?

Yes, shingles patients are infectious. Shingles are caused by the chickenpox virus, which has been latent in your body since you first had chickenpox. So shingles is caused by your own chickenpox virus, not by someone else’s.”

Is it true that getting some rest may assist with shingles?

Taking care of shingles symptoms

People may take additional measures to relieve their symptoms and minimize pain in addition to seeking medical care. Getting adequate sleep and relax is one of them. On itching, irritated skin and blisters, use a moist compress.

Is it possible for shingles to be caused by stress?

Although stress does not cause shingles, it may weaken your immune system, and a weaker immune system puts you at risk for shingles. The varicella zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox, produces shingles, a viral disease.

Is it true that blueberries may help with shingles?

Wild blueberries aid in the recovery of the central nervous system and the elimination of shingles neurotoxins from the liver. They also aid in the removal of harmful heavy metals from the brain and liver, which the shingles virus feeds on before releasing neurotoxins that cause a variety of symptoms and diseases.

When does shingles become the most painful?

Shingles usually last 3 to 5 weeks. Shingles have a predictable pattern: The initial symptom is often burning or tingling pain, with numbness or itching on one side of the body. A red rash will develop between 1 and 5 days following the tingling or burning sensation on the skin.

Should I receive a shingles vaccination if I’ve already had shingles?

Reduce your shingles risk by getting vaccinated.

Adults aged 50 and above should receive a shingles vaccine, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). After you’ve had shingles, you don’t have to wait a certain amount of time before getting the shingles vaccination.

I’m not sure why I keep getting shingles.

Answer: Shingles recurrence is often linked to immune system issues that develop with age or as a consequence of a medical condition or therapy. Varicella-zoster is a virus that remains in your body for the rest of your life after you’ve experienced chickenpox. Shingles may be caused by the virus being reactivated at any moment.

Is it possible to acquire shingles more than once?

If you’ve had shingles before, it’s unlikely that you’ll get it again. That isn’t to say it won’t happen; it simply seems improbable. Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, may reappear a second or, in rare cases, a third time. You can, however, take measures to assist avoid it or make it easier the next time it happens.

When you have shingles, how long should you remain at home?

If the blisters are on your face, you should wait until they have crusted over before returning to work (usually within 7 to 10 days). If the blisters are in an area that can be covered with bandages or clothes, you may return to work as soon as you feel ready.

When I have shingles, may I drink alcohol?

During shingles therapy, it’s recommended to stay away from alcohol. Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful rash caused by a viral infection. Alcohol may decrease the efficacy of certain medicines and raise the risk of adverse effects including dizziness, particularly in elderly people.

Is apple cider vinegar effective in the treatment of shingles?

One of the most effective home cures is apple cider vinegar. It’s a natural antibacterial that may help clean shingles lesions and hasten the healing process. Apply it with a soft cloth to sores (avoiding those that are open and/or leaking) and let it on for a few minutes.

Is Magnesium Effective in the Treatment of Shingles?

BACKGROUND: Postherpetic neuralgia is a consequence of acute herpes zoster that causes significant pain and paraesthesia in the skin region infected. In individuals with postherpetic neuralgia, intravenous magnesium sulphate was shown to be safe, well-tolerated, and efficacious.

How can you know if you have shingles?

To diagnose chickenpox or shingles, doctors utilize two kinds of tests: When you’re exposed to varicella zoster, your immune system produces antibodies to help you fight it. Antibodies are proteins that your doctor may check for in a sample of your blood. He draws blood from a vein in your arm.

Is it possible for shingles to damage the brain?

Shingles may induce brain inflammation (encephalitis), facial paralysis, or hearing or balance difficulties, depending on which nerves are involved.

How long does it take for shingles to develop?

a contagious period

From 2 days before the rash develops until at least 5 days after the rash appears and all blisters have crusted over in the case of chickenpox. A person is infectious for shingles from the time the rash develops until all blisters have dried up.

Is it safe to bathe in salt water if you have shingles?

Take good care of yourself. To assist eliminate crusts, bathe the rash three times a day in salt water (saline). Cover the rash with a thin non-stick bandage to help prevent the virus from spreading. Topical antibiotics (creams or ointments) and sticky dressings should not be used since they may cause the rash to take longer to cure.

Is exercise beneficial for shingles nerve pain?

When You Have PHN, You Should Exercise

When it comes to treating pain and other PHN symptoms, simple, moderate exercise may be just what your doctor prescribes. Exercise has a number of advantages, including increased energy and muscular strength, as well as the ability to decrease discomfort and make daily tasks simpler.

How do you feel when you have shingles?

The initial symptom of shingles, commonly known as herpes zoster, is a burning or tingling sensation on one side of your face, chest, back, or waist. It’s a lot of work. You may also feel as if you’re getting the flu, with symptoms like:

• Fever.
• Chills.
• Fatigue.
• Headache.

If you are pregnant or nursing, there are certain foods that are less likely to cause side effects for you and your baby. But what about shingles? ** If you have shingles, you may have heard that you should avoid eating eggs.  This is because shingles is often caused by a virus, and egg whites contain a protein called avidin.  However, there is no evidence that is the case.  Egg whites are not harmful to anyone with shingles.. Read more about is yogurt good for shingles and let us know what you think.

Frequently Asked Questions

What foods make shingles worse?

Some foods that may worsen shingles include: alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, citrus fruits, dairy products (milk and cheese), fatty foods (butter and cream), fish with high levels of mercury or other heavy metals such as swordfish, mackerel and tuna. What are the symptoms of shingles? The symptoms of shingles include: painful blisters on the skin, usually on one side of the face or body a rash that may be red, brown or yellow in color and may have a scaly appearance flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache and muscle aches painful, burning sensations in the eyes sensitivity to light and sound How is shingles diagnosed? The diagnosis of shingles is typically made by a doctor based on the symptoms and physical examination.

What is the best food to eat when you have shingles?

The best food to eat when you have shingles is chicken soup.

Can you eat meat when you have shingles?

Yes, you can eat meat when you have shingles.

12 Foods That Help Heal Shingles Virus

12 Foods That Help Heal Shingles Virus

In the medical world, shingles seems like an open-and-shut case. You’ve got a patient with the textbook rash, nerve pain on the side or back, and that’s all, folks. The truth is that the shingles virus is responsible for millions of people’s mystery symptoms, from rashes that confound dermatologists to neurological symptoms like twitching, tingling, burning, spasms, chronic migraines, headaches, and much more. Varieties of shingles are responsible for Bell’s palsy, frozen shoulder, diabetic nerve pain, colitis, vaginal burning, burning in other areas, TMJ, Lyme disease, sciatic pain, and even misdiagnosed MS.

What doctors don’t yet know is that there isn’t merely one type of shingles virus, but over 30 varieties. This matters because different types of shingles cause different symptoms. It also matters because medical communities don’t even recognize the majority of shingles cases as being the result of a virus. For example, any of the more aggressive varieties of shingles can cause Lyme disease symptoms yet doctors currently believe Lyme disease is caused by bacteria. (For more on Lyme disease, see Medical Medium: Secrets Behind Chronic and Mystery Illness and How to Finally Heal. )

To understand how shingles works in the body, the different types of shingles viruses, and how to heal, check out the chapter on this virus also in Medical Medium.

Certain foods can greatly aid the body in healing from shingles varieties with and without rashes. They can help by, variously, attacking the different strains of the virus, supporting the body in recovery from neurotoxin flare-ups, boosting the immune system, healing nerves and stimulating nerve growth, soothing inflamed skin, and detoxifying the body. Below you will find 12 of the foods that help heal shingles. Include them daily or as often as possible. 

Celery juice’s subgroup of sodium that I call “sodium cluster salts” inhibit the growth of shingles (and other pathogens). The sodium cluster salts also attach themselves to the viral neurotoxins that are responsible for so many neurological health issues and carry them out of the body safely so that nerves are less exposed to shingles damaging neurotoxins. The unique form of vitamin C in celery juice fuels the immune system so it can seek out and destroy shingles. These are just a few of the ways celery juice helps. For more on it’s incredible healing properties check out Medical Medium Celery Juice: The Most Powerful Medicine of Our Time Healing Millions Worldwide.

Wild blueberries help restore the central nervous system and flush shingles neurotoxins out of the liver. They also help remove toxic heavy metals from the brain and liver, which shingles virus feeds on and then produces neurotoxins which cause many symptoms and conditions. Wild blueberries are a critical part of the Medical Medium Heavy Metal Detox. Wild blueberries smaller than their larger, cultivated cousins and can be found in the freezer section of many grocery stores.

Papaya’s amino acids and enzymes combined create undiscovered subcompound phytochemicals that repel viruses. Its vitamin C content is an antiviral secret weapon and also helps cleanse and rebuild the liver where the shingles virus camps out. Papayas also restore the central nervous system from viral neurotoxin damage, which is critical for shingles-caused symptoms or conditions. Look for the Mexican and Central American papaya variety known as Maradol. These medium-to-large papayas are preferable to Hawaiian varieties, which have suffered GMO contamination.

Apples starve out viruses from the intestinal tract and liver. As the pectin from an apple moves through your gut, it collects and rids your body of viruses and other microbes such as bacteria, yeast, and mold. Choose red-skinned apples for the most nutrients. 

Pears revitalize and feed the liver while cleansing and purging the organ of shingles virus waste matter. Pears restore linings in the gut that have become damaged from the shingles virus. The shingles virus feeds off of milk, cheese, butter, and eggs and then excretes toxic waste that breaks down the intestinal linings over time. 

Artichokes help cleanse the liver of neurotoxins and dermatoxins produced by viruses such as the shingles virus. The edible portion of artichoke leaves (technically, bracts) contains alkaloid compounds that send messages to specific parts of your immune system to guard you from invaders such as shingles.

Bananas are a powerful antiviral food with incredible anti-inflammatory properties due to their ability to lower viral load. They provide amino acids and the right kind of potassium to rebuild neurotransmitters after they’ve been burnt out by shingles’ neurotoxins. Bananas are a secret weapon in reversing colitis, which is caused by the shingles virus–a truth still unknown to medical research and science. 

Sweet potato helps cleanse and detox the liver of shingles virus toxic byproduct that builds up over the years and makes the liver stagnant and sluggish. They also help to feed the nerves, which are greatly affected by the shingles virus because shingles virus neurotoxins are highly inflammatory to nerves. 

Spinach creates an alkaline environment in the body and provides highly absorbable micronutrients to the nervous system, which is critical because EBV targets the nervous system when it gets to stage four (read all about the stages of EBV in Thyroid Healing). Spinach binds onto and removes the jelly-like EBV waste matter in the liver that can contribute to mystery weight gain, mystery heart flutters and more. Spinach is best eaten raw to receive its benefits. 

Asparagus has phytochemicals in the skin and tips of its spears that push back shingles and help stop it from reproducing. Asparagus is also an incredible alkalizer, meaning it helps anyone who has become acidic with a load of troublemakers like shingles and its byproducts return to a healthy state. Asparagus has blood-, lymph-, and liver-purifying properties that make it an ideal food for helping to detoxify viral byproduct sludge.

Lettuces (varieties that are leafy and deep green or red) are antiviral. They help cleanse shingles from the liver and lymphatic system and are alkalizing to the body. Lettuces such as romaine contain sedative compounds that relax the nerves and calm the body, which is helpful for anyone with a viral symptom or condition that inflames the nerves.  

Green beans contain anti-inflammatory chlorophyll-based compounds that are beneficial for any symptom or condition caused by shingles. 

For more information on shingles and how you can heal, check out Medical Medium: Secrets Behind Chronic and Mystery Illness and How to Finally Heal.

Learn more about how to heal from the New York Times bestselling book Cleanse To Heal.

This item posted: 03-Jan-2020

All You Need To Know About Shingles | Pain Relief

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a secondary outbreak of the chicken pox virus. Even if you suffered chicken pox as a kid, the virus continues to lie dormant in the nerve cells of your body, near your spinal cord and brain. Research suggests that the virus can reactivate anytime the body’s immune system is compromised, which could happen when we’re stressed, suffering from lack of sleep, or even anxious.

Doctors will prescribe just about anything for shingles to help ease the pain and discomfort — from painkillers, antidepressants, and topical petrochemical creams, to anti-inflammatories and antibiotics, steroids, and antiviral medications.  

If you have shingles, you have to get more help than what doctors offer, that is for sure. You need to look at your overall diet and lifestyle to properly deal with shingles.

Natural Remedies for Shingles

Bottom line: Shingles damages your nervous system and alters natural balance and neurological core control. With clients who suffer with shingles, we encourage changing their diet and looking at their overall lifestyle.

Researchers believe that imbalances in natural amino acids contribute to the prolonged reaction time many have to the virus.

Two amino acids that seem important that are found in the human body but also in foods we eat are L-arginine and L-lysine. Studies show that if you have a greater level of arginine in the body, the herpes zoster virus will thrive. Arginine is found in nuts, tomatoes, and chocolate. On the other hand, lysine is a potent inhibitor of arginine. It is found in protein-based foods, dairy, and most vegetables. We also found writing on vitamin C being essential and oral doses of Colloidal Silver being helpful as well.

Here’s a list that shows other foods with both amino acids in them.

Foods rich in Arginine 

(Food to avoid when you have shingles)

• Tomatoes
• Wheat Germ
• Brussels sprouts
• Cashews
• Grapes
• Pumpkin Seeds
• Pecans
• Blackberries
• Blueberries
• Peanuts
• Chocolate
• Sugars

Food rich in Lysine

(Food to eat to promote healing from shingles)

• All meats
• Fish
• Yogurt
• Cheese
• Milk
• Eggs
• Apples
• Pears
• Apricots
• Avocados
• Pineapples
• Green beans
• Asparagus

Pain Relief for Shingles

The pain after the shingles look better is the part people have trouble with, called post-herpetic neuralgia. It consists of sharp, shooting pain in the region where the outbreak occurred and can persist for years after the initial outbreak. Up to 60% of people over the age of 60 who got shingles go on to develop this chronic condition.

Don’t be passive with your treatment of shingles. Keep seeking alternative care options and don’t rely on medication to cure your symptoms or relieve your pain.

Reducing stress wherever possible can help you recover from shingles. Using MELT Method can help reduce the daily accumulation of stress. My suggestion is to do the following treatments at least 3-4 times a week:

MELT Hand or Foot Treatment

Rebalance Sequence

Neck Release Sequence

There are also advanced moves that MELT instructors can share, such as Neck Turn and Neck Side Bend, which stimulate tissue in and around the ribs and lungs. These sequences can offer additional relief for the pain symptoms.

Let one of the MELT Instructors listed on this site help you.

Click here to find if there’s one near you, or sign up for a free trial of MELT On Demand.

Here are some YouTube videos that can also help:

Recommended MELT Tools:

Hand & Foot Treatment Kit

The MELT Hand and Foot Treatment Kit includes all the tools for the MELT Hand and Foot Treatment, an innovative whole body technique.

Soft Roller

The MELT Soft Roller is 36″ in length and designed specifically for the techniques of the MELT Method, offering gentle compression without unnecessary discomfort.

[Diet Therapy for Shingles] What Food Reduces Side Effects of Acyclovir

Herpes zoster, commonly known as “shingles”, is a viral infection that causes tingling and burning rash and blisters on the skin. While shingles are almost never life-threatening, living with shingles can lead to many inconveniences in your daily life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, patients may start experiencing pain, itching or tingling in the area where the rash will develop from 1 to 5 days before the rash appears. After patients start the treatment, the rash and blisters will typically scab over in 7 to 10 days and usually clear up within 2 to 4 weeks. During the treatment, it is important for the patients to strictly follow their prescribed treatment regimens and a healthy diet, in order to speed up the recovery process and to minimize inconveniences caused by the illness.

What Is The Relationship Between Diet Choices and Shingles? 

Having a healthy, balanced diet is not only necessary for maintaining good health, but it is also the best long-term solution against infection and for strengthening the immune system. According to a study conducted by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine on the relationship between herpes zoster and fruit and dietary consumption, the consumption of seven micronutrients – vitamins A, B(6), C, E, folic acid, zinc and iron – plays a significant role in reducing the risk of developing zoster, and particularly so for patients aged 60 years old or above. The study’s results also pointed to a strong association between less fruit consumption and increasing zoster risk, as individuals who ate less than one piece of fruit per week were found to have more than three times the risk of zoster compared to individuals who ate more than three portions per day. 

In addition, given that some antiviral medication targeted at shingles’ pain relief, such as Acyclovir, could induce constipation as one of its side effects, consuming more high-fibre foods can ease symptoms of drug-induced constipation. Dietary fibres are classified into two types, soluble and insoluble. Along with drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, consuming a sufficient level of insoluble fibre, which is high in foods such as wheat bran and whole grains, can help soften up the stool, encourage bowel movements and thus relieve constipation.

Read More: [The Golden 72 Hours] Common Shingles Rash Treatment for Pain Relief

How Many Servings of  Vegetables and Fruits Are Considered Enough? 

Although fibre-rich foods are known to be good for our health, consuming too much fibre can also be a problem. An adult is recommended to take in at least 25 grams of fibre per day, meaning at least 2 servings of fruits and 3 servings of vegetables every day as part of a balanced diet in order to promote optimal health. In general, two fist-sized apples or a cup of blueberries are considered as 2 servings of fruits, while one and a half bowl of cooked vegetables are counted as 3 servings of vegetables. Okra, edamame, pear, and apple are also rich in fibres.

Do Sweets, Chocolates or Fried Foods Make Shingles Worse? 

There are a number of alternative therapies popular on the internet, claiming to offer an effective treatment to shingles, such as taking certain supplements instead of medication. They also claimed that we should avoid specific types of foods such as sweets and chocolate as they might cause certain viruses to grow within our body. In fact, these so-called beneficial treatments are often unsubstantiated scientific claims. While we have to take these claims with a grain of salt, there are indeed certain kinds of foods, such as spicy and fried food, that patients should avoid in order to reduce the risks of triggering allergic reactions during the recovery stages. Elderly patients are advised to consume more of the easy-to-digest food such as fish, lean meat, soy-rich food and fresh vegetables , which can boost nutrient absorption to facilitate a full recovery.

What Shingles Pain Relief Are Available Apart From Medication? 

Patients should maintain good personal hygiene and avoid picking at or scratching affected areas to prevent developing skin infections or spreading contagion through direct contact with fluid from the rash blisters. Once, a patient failed to resist scratching the rash blisters when they were turning into scabs.  As a result, the skin was torn and since bacteria tend to hide under fingernails, the affected areas were infected, which not only prolonged recovery but also left scars on the patient’s skin. Patients should follow the doctor’s treatment instructions, take medication on time and keep their skin clean and dry. To relief the pain, they are also advised to wear soft and loose clothing and avoid washing the affected areas with hot water.  

In some western countries, colloidal oatmeal bath has been gaining traction as an effective remedy to ease skin irritation or itching caused by shingles and eczema. To make an oatmeal bath, you can first ground the oatmeal into a fine powder and pour it directly to the lukewarm bathwater. Accepted by the American Academy of Dermatology, colloidal oatmeal baths are believed to protect the skin and soothe the itching and irritation. However, there are no unified standards for the level of intensity, amount and type of oats in the bath to have optimised results on the easing of itching symptoms. Results also vary among patients. Given a wide range of instant oatmeal products out in the market, it is important to consult a doctor for the ingredient information before use, in case that the product contains active allergens. If there are open wounds on the skin, patients should avoid taking an oatmeal bath until they have fully healed.

Can We Fully Recover From Shingles? What Are The Chances Of Shingles Recurrence? 

Although varicella-zoster virus remains inactive in our body after recovery, the risk of suffering from shingles a second time will be significantly reduced if you stay positive, get adequate sleep and exercise regularly to strengthen the immune system. A study has shown that almost 1 out of every 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime. However, a majority of people who develop shingles have only one episode during their lifetime. People with a  strengthened immune system are least likely to suffer from a recurrence of shingles.

Tips During Shingles’ Recovery 

●      Consume 2 servings of fruits and 3 servings of vegetables every day

●      Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day

●      Consume at least 25 grams of dietary fibre every day, and eat more food that is easy to digest

●       Example for breakfast: whole wheat sandwich with boiled egg and cabbage and a cup of blueberries

●       Example for lunch: rice with lean pork and okra (Stir fry the marinated okra and lean pork. Add few pieces of mushroom and spring opinion. Add water, soy sauce, sugar and salt to thicken the sauce.)

●        Example for dinner: congee with portulaca oleracea and barley （prepare 30g each for portulaca oleracea, barley and Huai Shan, 100 g of lean pork meat and 50g for rice. Add water to the rice until it has the thick, creamy texture of porridge. Season as you like.）

Dr. Jason Fong Ka Yeung, Specialist in Neurology

& Miss Macy Chow Ching Man, Registered Dietitian

Diet for Shingles | Diet

Diet for Shingles

Foods to be Avoid During Shingles Outbreak
1.  Foods with Arginine 精氨酸
Foods high in the amino acid arginine tend to promote the growth of the shingles virus. Especially problematic are foods that are high in arginine and low in lysine 賴氨酸, an amino acid to balance arginine in human body.  During an outbreak, avoid nuts and seeds, soy foods, chocolate, oats, wheat germ, coconut, carob, whole-wheat and white flour, and gelatin.

Arginine  
精氨酸    

Lysine     
離胺酸/賴氨酸    

2.  Processed Foods
Because herpes zoster 帶狀皰疹 is a viral condition, building a strong immune system through dietary intake of vitamins A, B-6, C, E and folate, plus the minerals iron and zinc, may have benefit.

Particularly, diet is low in fruits and vegetables increase the risk of developing shingles.  Avoid foods low in vitamins and minerals, such as sugary foods and beverages and other refined carbohydrates  Increase your intake of whole, unprocessed foods.

Ratio Lysine vs Arginine
People suffering viral diseases can benefit from a diet high in Lysine and low in Arginine. Following chart is only an example, foods at top having higher Lysine to Arginine ratios.

Top 10 Foods Highest in Lysine
For full detail  

Diet and vitamin supplements may influence viral replication.  A total approach to nutrition should be used.  Use this chart as a reference only.  There is no reason to avoid foods if having a low lysine/arginine ratio and only a few mg of arginine in it.

The ratio – “Lysine vs Arginine” is transcribed and calculated using the data from Agricultural Handbook, 1-23, U. S. Department of Agriculture.

Foods to be included
During shingles outbreak, it’s a good idea adding foods to daily diet having a higher ratio of lysine to arginine.  These foods include beef, fish, poultry, lamb, brewer’s yeast, and most fruits and vegetables except peas.  Additionally, extra vitamin C in diet can help boost the immunity and shorten an outbreak.  Don’t forget to combine plenty of citrus fruits, pineapple, mango, leafy greens and tomatoes into your meals, both to prevent shingles outbreaks and to help lessen their severity.

Menu Sample
You don’t have to restrict food selection during a shingles outbreak;  simply create a menu that minimizes arginine-rich foods.

Foods with more lysine than arginine:
Breakfast – low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese with fresh pineapple

Lunch – salad of leafy greens topped with tuna or grilled chicken breast and chopped veggies.

Dinner – broil salmon or cod served with steamed vegetables.  A meatless meal could be a bowl of black bean soup with sliced avocado.

Snacks – dried fruit such as figs 無花果 or apricots, celery sticks stuffed with goat cheese, or a smoothie made with low-fat milk, mango and whey protein 乳清蛋白.

Foods Contain Whey Protein

• Ricotta Cheese 乳清乾酪 – contains the most whey of any whole food because it is made from whey protein
• Milk
• Yogurt
• Cheeses

Whey protein  
乳清蛋白    

Shingles Diet- The 3 Effective Shingles Diet Tips

Shingles Diet- The 3 Effective Shingles Diet Tips

8 Effective Home Remedies For Shingles

Shingles: How Can We Help Our Bodies Heal Naturally?

Shingles, also known as the herpes zoster, is a painful viral disease that causes skin rash and blisters appearing only on one side of the body along the peripheral nerve in a type of stripe. The outbreak is very painful, and the goal is to clear the condition quickly – something that proper diet can certainly impact.

Shingles begins with an initial infection of the varicella zoster virus that causes chickenpox, generally in children and young adults. Years after chickenpox, the virus remains and can re-emerge as shingles. Varicella zoster virus can become latent in the nerve cell bodies for years without causing symptoms, and an outbreak of shingles normally lasts 7 to 14 days. However, in people who are immune compromised, this disease can have serious consequences. People who suffer from shingles may also experience residual nerve pain for months or even years; this is referred to as post herpetic neuralgia. Other symptoms caused by the condition are fatigue, depression and flu-like symptoms.

Exactly how the virus remains latent in the body, and subsequently re-activates is not fully understood. However, with that said, I believe stress, poor diet and a weakened immune system are the common culprits.

To help the body heal and keep the virus at bay, one needs to avoid stress, allow the body necessary rest, stay hydrated, and cut out incorrect enzymes in foods that feed the situation, particularly those high in the amino acid L-Arginine which can perpetuate an outbreak.

For overall health, you want to increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, but avoid citrus fruits during an outbreak. Vegetable juicing will allow high levels of antioxidants to feed the body which is extremely important in maintaining health with this disease. Beet, carrot, celery, spinach, kale combined in a juice offers a perfect combination.

Maintaining an anti-inflammatory diet will also help keep the virus at bay. Eat foods rich in B6 such as bananas, certain nuts/seeds, sweet potatoes, and red skinned potatoes. Also consume sprouted whole grains, sprouted brown rice, gluten-free quinoa, and rice-based pasta. Dairy- free yogurts that are free of chemicals, casein and lactaid, such as a quality goat or sheep yogurt can be very helpful for the G.I. flora.

If experiencing an outbreak, avoid peanuts, almonds, cashews, chicken, dairy products, red meats, barley and oats, as well as alcohol, caffeine, sugar and all refined simple carbohydrates, as these foods can aggravate the system and cause the virus to continue to spread and blister.

Adding chlorophyll and kelp will promote healing and enhance the body’s immune system. Important vitamins include a B-complex, L-lysine, buffered vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, bromelain and quercetin.

To soothe an outbreak, try a few drops of essential oil such as eucalyptus or goldenseal root diffused with a tablespoon of olive oil or grape seed oil and apply the mixture directly to the lesions. This will have a calming effect and, if caught early enough and combined with proper diet, may lessen the outbreak, or stop it completely and send it back into remission.

Dr. Beckner is the owner of Your Body Code, personalized nutrition and wellness programs in Palm Desert and can be reached at (760) 341.BODY (2639). Call us for a free personalized consultation and visit us on the web for free recipes and more information at www.yourbodycode.com.

Sources: 1)Amanda Beckner CN, HHP, PhD, Your Body Code, copyright 2009; 2)Roberta Wilson,  Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health & Beauty, copyright 1995; 3)Robert Berkow MD, Editor –in-chief, The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, copyright 1987

90,000 Vaccines for the prevention of shingles in the elderly

Review question

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of the vaccine for the prevention of shingles in healthy older adults.

Relevance

The varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox and can remain dormant inside nerve cells for many years. The virus can activate, spread through the skin, and appear as blisters along the nerves.This is called herpes zoster or herpes zoster and mainly affects people with low immunity, such as the elderly. Before blistering occurs, a person may feel itching, numbness, tingling, or pain. Herpes zoster causes inflammation of the nerves and severe pain that can affect quality of life. The incidence of herpes zoster ranges from 2.08 cases to 6.20 cases per 1000 older people (i.e., the number of new cases per group at risk in a given time period).This number is growing, in part because people are living longer.

This is an update to the Cochrane Review, which was last updated in 2016.

Search date

January 31, 2019.

Research characteristics

We included 11 new studies with 18,615 participants in this update; the review now includes evidence from 24 studies involving 88,531 people. Most of the studies were conducted in high-income countries in Europe and North America, and two studies were conducted in Japan.The study participants were healthy adults aged 60 and over who had no difficulty fighting infection, most of whom were white women. The follow-up period ranged from 28 days to 7 years. All primary research results were published in English.

Sources of research funding

Most of the research was funded by pharmaceutical companies; one study received funding from a university research foundation.

Highlights

One large, high-quality study of 38,546 people aged 60 and over compared live attenuated (attenuated) herpes zoster vaccine (LZV) with a fake vaccine (placebo) (one dose given as subcutaneous (injectable) under the skin) injection). This study showed that an active vaccine can prevent shingles for up to three years. Vaccine side effects were mostly mild to moderate for systemic symptoms as well as injection site reactions.

Recombinant herpes zoster vaccine (RZV) is a new vaccine that contains a small fraction of the varicella-zoster virus plus an adjuvant. An adjuvant is a substance that enhances the body’s response to an irritant (bacteria, viruses, and substances that appear foreign and harmful) in order to protect itself. This vaccine requires two intramuscular doses given two to six months apart. Two studies (29,311 participants to evaluate safety and 22,022 participants to evaluate efficacy) compared RZV to placebo and reported that people receiving RZV had fewer episodes of herpes zoster but had more systemic symptoms and injection site reactions.Most of the participants reported that these side effects were mild to moderate in intensity. Importantly, the number of participants who did not receive the second dose was higher in the vaccine group than in the placebo group.

Quality of evidence

We rated the overall quality of the evidence as moderate because the studies involved many participants.

Complications of coronavirus: lungs, heart, kidneys and brain are affected. Is it for a long time or forever?

June 13, 2020

Photo author, Getty Images

For six months now, scientists and doctors have been trying to assess the harm that Covid-19 causes to the human body, however, despite more than 400 thousand.deaths, millions of patients and thousands of studies and reports, the picture has not been fully clarified.

Data obtained by British researchers indicate that the primary symptoms of the disease can appear, disappear and reappear for 30 days or more, which is significantly longer than the official two-week period indicated by WHO experts.

And for some, the disease can only mean the beginning of a long and painful struggle with the virus, which can turn into a new “post-coronavirus syndrome”.

According to the authoritative journal Science, this coronavirus “does things that no other disease known to mankind has done.”

While the authorities took one measure after another in an attempt to stop the spread of infection, and doctors (in vain) looked for a medicine or vaccine that could fight the disease, we learned more and more details about the coronavirus, and our understanding of it changed, and in some respects – in root.

At first it seemed that this is a common respiratory disease like SARS or bird flu, but later it turned out that coronavirus (its official name is SARS-CoV-2) can affect the lungs, brain, nasopharynx, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, kidneys and the intestines, that is, literally all the vital organs.

According to the results of studies already conducted, Covid-19 is accompanied by a whole set of a wide variety of symptoms, and for those who have had a severe illness, the long-term consequences can be the most serious: from scarring of the lung tissue and kidney failure to inflammation of the heart muscle, arrhythmias, damage liver, cognitive impairment, psychosis, accompanied by a sharp change in mood, and much more.

How the disease will affect people in the long term remains to be fully understood, but already now there are many indications that the consequences of this disease continue to be experienced even by those who have had a fairly mild coronavirus.

There is another important question: can the SARS-CoV-2 virus persist in the human body in a dormant state, and will it not manifest itself in one form or another in a few years?

There will be nothing surprising in this, doctors say, because viruses are known that behave in this way. For example, after a person has had chickenpox, the herpes virus that caused it does not disappear anywhere, he can quietly hide for decades, and then, if the opportunity arises, turn into painful shingles.

A virus that causes hepatitis B can lead to liver cancer many years later.

Even the Ebola virus, discovered many months later in surviving patients in the ocular fluid, subsequently causes blindness in 40% of those infected.

Therefore, given the fact that SARS-CoV-2 prefers the lungs, doctors suspected that it was there that the virus was capable of causing irreversible changes in the first place.

Lungs

Back in March, experts from Wuhan University of Technology reported that 66 out of 70 patients who survived pneumonia due to Covid-19, computed tomography found visible lesions in the lungs.

Photo Credit, Getty Images

Caption,

Some patients may not fully recover lung function.

These injuries ranged from blockage of blood vessels in the alveoli to scarring of lung tissue. This scarring, or thickening of the tissue, is called pulmonary fibrosis and can lead to shortness of breath. There is currently no way to stop or reverse this process.

“Fibrosis can stabilize and not change over time, that’s right.In some patients, lung function may not fully recover, but the consequences of this will not be so significant, – explains the professor at the University of Leicester Louise Wayne. “But there are cases of progressive fibrosis, and this is really dangerous, because sooner or later it kills.”

In addition, even before the imposition of strict quarantine in Britain, the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine trained British critical care physicians, warned that patients with severe Covid-19 can suffer such severe lung damage that it will take them up to 15 years to recover.

FICM emphasized that many patients admitted to intensive care units developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a severe inflammation of the lungs in which fluid from the blood enters the alveoli, making breathing impossible without a special apparatus.

Given the history of lung tissue injury in patients with SARS and MERS, a medical team led by radiologist Melina Hosseini at the University of California, Los Angeles strongly recommends that patients who recover from Covid-19 be monitored and their lungs checked “for long-term or permanent damage, including fibrosis “.

Heart and blood vessels

As doctors try to assess the damage to various organs of patients who have recovered from Covid-19, they are faced with a very expected problem: people suffering from diseases of the lungs, heart, kidneys or blood, such as as a rule, they became the first victims of the coronavirus, and in their case, the disease was most often difficult. Therefore, it is not always possible to determine what the virus has led to, and what has already been damaged before it.

However, one thing is clear: when symptoms of infection begin to manifest, the functions of many organs are impaired, and the failure of one leads to the failure of others.

An acute inflammatory process also plays a role, which leads to strokes and heart attacks.

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

Coronavirus can cause damage to the heart muscle and the formation of blood clots

As stated in a March report published in the specialized medical journal JAMA Cardiology, damage to the heart muscle was noted in almost 20% of 416 patients examined in Wuhan hospitals.

Ibid, but already in intensive care units, arrhythmia was noted in 44% of 36 patients.

Doctors associate this with hypercytokinemia, or cytokine storm, a potentially fatal reaction of the body, which triggers uncontrolled activation of immune cells, which leads to the destruction of the tissues of the inflammatory focus. This reaction has been observed in some patients with coronavirus.

In particular, inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) occurs, which interferes with electrical impulses, leads to artimia and disrupts blood circulation, causing shortness of breath.

Cardiovascular complications are not unique to Covid-19: many viral diseases can cause myocarditis.Although most patients recover, some have permanent damage to the heart muscle.

Moreover, Covid-19 negatively affects the blood itself. Of the 184 coronavirus patients admitted to intensive care in the Netherlands, 38% had increased blood clotting, and almost a third of them had blood clots.

Kidney

Although the coronavirus primarily affects the lungs, some patients have also spread to the kidneys.

According to a sample study in China, 27% of 85 patients admitted to Wuhan hospitals with coronavirus had kidney problems.

Another study found that 59% of nearly 200 patients hospitalized in Hubei and Sichuan provinces had protein in their urine, indicating infection, and 44% had blood, indicating severe kidney damage.

Moreover, in patients with acute renal failure (ARF), the risk of death was 5 times higher than in ordinary patients with coronavirus.

Brain

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

Scientists have not yet established exactly how the coronavirus affects the brain. cognitive disorders.

So far, scientists are only wondering what exactly caused these symptoms. However, existing theories focus on how the virus affects neurons – nerve cells. The loss of taste and smell, and inflammatory processes (in this way, our immune system reacts to the virus), and the lack of oxygen, which some patients felt, are also mentioned.

Cognitive disorders can be associated with patients being in intensive care, this is also called temporary clouding of the mind, or delirium, when a person has hallucinations, however, this is more common in older people.

Although symptoms usually resolve over time, some may persist. According to doctors, the restoration of cognitive functions in patients with coronavirus strongly depends on age, comorbidity (that is, the coexistence of two or more diseases or disorders in a patient) and the severity of the course of the disease itself.

According to Lynn Turner-Stokes, professor of rehabilitation medicine at King’s College London, the virus can affect the brain of even those patients who have had a rather mild illness.

And according to University of Cambridge professor Ed Bullmore, we already have sufficient reason to believe that SARS-CoV-2 causes a “neurotoxic disease” that leads to “a kind of change in the mental state of the patient.”

“We do not know exactly what causes this neurotoxicity,” confesses Professor Bullmore. brain.At the moment, all of these options are possible. ”

The test detects IgG antibodies against Varicella Zoster Virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles.

Synonyms Russian

Antibodies of class IgG to VZV, immunoglobulins of class G to shingles and varicella.

English synonyms

Anti-Varicella Zoster Virus IgG, VZV antibodies, IgG.

Research method

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

Venous, capillary blood.

How to properly prepare for the study?

Do not smoke for 30 minutes prior to examination.

General information about the study

Varicella Zoster Virus causes two diseases in humans: chickenpox and shingles (herpes zoster).

Both diseases are usually diagnosed by external signs. However, in atypical cases, laboratory diagnostics are needed. The IgG test is not basic, but can complement data from other tests.

In addition, the determination of IgG to Varicella Zoster Virus is carried out when planning pregnancy – chickenpox during pregnancy can lead to complications.

Chickenpox develops when the virus first enters the human body. This usually occurs during childhood (which is why chickenpox is traditionally considered a childhood disease).Moreover, in adults, the disease is more severe than in children.

Infection occurs through contact with a sick person: the virus is transmitted by airborne droplets. The incubation period is about 2 weeks (10 to 21 days). The first symptoms of the disease: fever and general malaise. A rash appears after 1-2 days. The bubbles soon dry up, crust over and disappear after 2 weeks, usually leaving no scarring.

After an infection, a person develops lifelong immunity, i.e.That is, they do not get chickenpox a second time.

Chickenpox poses some danger during pregnancy.

Firstly, it is dangerous for the mother herself, because in pregnant women it is severe. A common complication (in 20% of cases) is pneumonia.

Secondly, the disease threatens the fetus. A child can be born with various disorders: scars on the skin, underdeveloped limbs, microcephaly, encephalitis, eye lesions, etc. In addition, if the mother becomes infected at the very end of pregnancy, the newborn can become seriously ill with chickenpox in the first days of life, and with the risk of death. outcome.

The likelihood of complications is low, nevertheless, it is better to pass tests for immunity against chickenpox beforehand.

If immunity is developed (there are IgG antibodies), then you can not be afraid of chicken pox.

If IgG antibodies are absent, then the likelihood of getting sick during pregnancy is possible. In this case, you can get the chickenpox vaccine.

After a person has had chickenpox and recovered, the virus usually does not die. It goes into a latent state and is stored in neurons.Later, under the influence of stress, with a decrease in immunity or with a sharp cooling, the virus can be activated. Elderly people often get sick.

In the first days of herpes zoster, the patient experiences general malaise, his temperature rises. Severe pain occurs in the trunk or less often on the face (tingling, itching, irritation). After 1-3 days, a rash appears in places where pain was felt, and on one side of the body. Painful sensations (neuralgia) persist even after its disappearance, within a month.

Unlike chickenpox, shingles is not dangerous during pregnancy.

After viruses enter the human body, he begins to fight them. One of the responses is the production of antibodies (special proteins of immunoglobulins). There are several types of them: IgG, IgM, IgA, etc.

IgG in the blood is the most. As a rule, they are not the first to appear during infection (later than IgM), but their level remains high for a long time. In the case of Varicella Zoster Virus, IgG antibodies persist for life.

When diagnosing an acute infection that resembles chickenpox or shingles, the IgG test is not informative enough. It should be borne in mind that if a person has been ill in the past, then antibodies will always be detected. In addition, if the symptoms of chickenpox are recent, the test result may be negative, since IgGs do not appear until a few weeks after infection.

But when planning a pregnancy, an IgG test provides all the information you need.Based on its results, it is possible to accurately determine whether the expectant mother has immunity against chickenpox.

What is the research used for?

• To determine if a person is immune to Varicella Zoster Virus. This allows him to understand if he can get chickenpox.
• To clarify the diagnosis – to determine the causative agent of the disease. This is required if the diagnosis cannot be made on the basis of external symptoms.

When is the study ordered?

• When planning pregnancy (to avoid complications).
• When a person is sick, but the symptoms of chickenpox or shingles are atypical.
  • Typical symptoms of chickenpox:

1. 1. 1. rash all over the body, at the same time there are spots and pimples of different sizes,
      2. moderate itching,
      3. fever, headache, weakness.

• • Typical symptoms of shingles:
    • burning localized pain at the site of the rash,
    • rash on one side of the torso,
    • temperature, general intoxication.
  • Atypical symptoms of shingles:
    • various neurological disorders (paralysis of the facial nerve, dizziness, deafness, cerebellar ataxia, etc.).

What do the results mean?

Reference values ​​

The result is negative.

KP (coefficient of positivity): 0 – 0.79.

Download an example of the result

Also recommended

Who orders the study?

General practitioner, internist, infectious disease specialist, gynecologist.

Literature

• Dobec M. et al. Serology and serum DNA detection in shingles. Swiss Med Wkly. 2008; 138: 47-51.
• Gardella C. et al. Managing varicella zoster infection in pregnancy. Cleve Clin J Med. 2007; 74 (4): 290-296.
• Goldman’s Cecil Medicine. 24 ^th ed. Goldman L, Schafer A.I., eds. Saunders Elsevier; 2011.
• Pupco A. et al. Herpes zoster during pregnancy. Can Fam Physician. 2011; 57 (10): 1133.

Which doctor should you go to with shingles

Dermatologists in Moscow – latest reviews

The doctor is attentive, friendly, calm, competent. At the reception, Victoria Stepanovna wrote out a list of vitamins that need to be taken, a specific diet.Shampoo to be used for the precursor of the problem. She said not to use masks and conditioner yet. I chose this specialist based on reviews. Recommendations are affective.

Nikita,

06 October 2021

The reception went well.The doctor is competent and competent. She performed an examination, gave me advice and prescribed treatment. The treatment is very long and so far I cannot assess the effectiveness. I will contact Olga Vladimirovna again in a couple of weeks.

Anastasia,

03 October 2021

At the reception, the doctor listened to me, examined me, told me everything, answered my questions and gave her recommendations.The reception lasted half an hour. This time was enough to resolve my question. The doctor is attentive, explains everything clearly and easily. I can recommend this specialist to my friends, if necessary, and if necessary, I can apply again. I was satisfied with the quality of the reception.

Alexander,

02 October 2021

All perfectly.A good doctor, responsible, punctual, polite. At the reception, Valentin Valentinovich conducted an initial examination, removed the wart. As a result, I consulted and gave advice. Everything is quick, everything is clear. Would apply again, everything was fine with me, why not.

Evgeniy,

September 13, 2021

At the reception, Sergei Ivanovich prescribed me a treatment that, in my opinion, was dubious.Because he immediately prescribed me a strong drug with antibiotics on my face. The doctor did not take a smear, only shone a flashlight and that’s it. My visit itself lasted about five minutes. I turned to this specialist because I liked the reviews and the doctor had prescribed the specialization I needed.

Ksenia,

August 19, 2021

Diagnosed with HPV.He prescribed expensive treatment so that I agreed to start intimidating with oncology. At the same time, he said that it was necessary to start urgently. Refused to describe the treatment plan until I make an advance payment.
I went to another more qualified specialist in another clinic. He explained to me in detail that the treatment as such does not exist, the treatment is not approved by WHO, and has no scientifically proven effectiveness. And it is applied only in the CIS, and not in the West. And the immune system itself copes with the virus. Of course, Grigoriev did not say anything about this.In general, a classic extortionist, just to rip off more money. At the same time, it intimidates patients. Stay away from this doctor.

Andrey,

08 August 2021

At the appointment, the doctor and I discussed the previous treatment and made a new one, she told in great detail why such a problem arose.The doctor is attentive, explains everything clearly and easily. I can recommend this specialist to my friends, if necessary. I was pleased with the quality of the reception.

Mamedova Nargiz Alievna,

July 29, 2021

He suggested everything, even explained what I did not expect.The doctor performed the procedure well and painlessly, gave recommendations and told such things about which I did not know and did not expect to hear. Natalya Gennadievna is a professional. …

Denis,

July 27, 2021

Very attentive doctor.This is my second time treating the child. She explains everything in an accessible language, even for an ordinary person, and prescribes treatment. Everything is very effective. I am very, very happy with the doctor. When we turned to her for the first time, I immediately liked it, because when I turned to other specialists, I came across all sorts of unnecessary additional manipulations. Here you ask a question and get an exhaustive answer to it.

Tatiana,

23 July 2021

The doctor is competent and attentive.She explained our problem in an accessible way, made the necessary manipulations and made recommendations.

Helena,

05 March 2021

Show 10 reviews of 24,574 90,000 SEALING HERPES – Dobrobut clinic

The peculiarities of herpes viruses include their ability to infect almost all systems and organs of the human body, remaining forever in the cells of the nervous system.According to official statistics, almost every inhabitant of the planet is infected with some type of herpes. One of the most common is herpes zoster, the infectious agent of which has the beautiful name Varicella zoster.

Herpes zoster – what is it?

Herpes zoster – what kind of disease is it, what is the mechanism of its development, and where is the familiar “childhood” chickenpox infection here? Answering these questions, medical science has built a logical chain, consisting of three sequential stages:

1. primary infection of a patient with varicella zoster virus leads to the development of chickenpox disease;
2. after the complete disappearance of the symptoms of chickenpox (clinical recovery), the causative agent of herpes zoster does not disappear from the body anywhere; it migrates to the cells of the nervous tissue (as a rule, these are the ganglia of the central nervous system) and can be there in a latent (“dormant”) state for many years, having absolutely no effect on human health;
3. Under certain unfavorable circumstances for the body, the virus begins to reactivate, causing the disease herpes zoster (herpes zoster, herpes Zoster).

Causes of herpes zoster

The causes of herpes zoster depend on factors that contribute to a decrease in the patient’s immunity. The main trigger for the development of the disease is considered to be a natural age-related weakening of the body’s defenses – the elderly (over 60 years old) are at risk. However, herpes zoster, the causes of which are associated with situations when a person is regularly under stress or the presence of concomitant chronic diseases (for example, diabetes mellitus or heart failure), can develop at a young age.An obligatory cause of herpes zoster is a history of chickenpox.

Herpes zoster symptoms

Herpes zoster (symptoms) in the initial stage is practically no different from a common viral infection (ARVI). Patients report familiar “cold” symptoms:

• muscle and joint pain;
• increased body temperature, chills;
• headache, weakness.

When herpes zoster develops, the symptoms are skin rashes in the form of small blisters with serous contents. The pain syndrome in the affected areas is characterized by increased intensity. The rash is usually localized on one side of the body and limited to the area of ​​nerve innervation. Most often, these are intercostal spaces, but herpes zoster occurs on the face (areas of the branches of the trigeminal nerve) or in places where large nerves pass on the upper or lower extremities.After 2 – 4 weeks, the burst bubbles dry up, becoming covered with crusts. The classic course of herpes zoster (symptoms) suggests the presence of further possible postherpetic neuralgia.

Herpes zoster in children

Herpes zoster in children is a fairly rare disease that debuts at the age of over 13 years. The reasons for the development of the pathological process can be an overabundance of actions leading to a weakening of the immune system – overcooled, overheated, nervous, ill, etc.e. In any case, herpes zoster in a child is a secondary disease after previous chickenpox.

Herpes zoster during pregnancy

Herpes zoster during pregnancy is an unpredictable event. In this case, there is a possibility of infection of the child with a herpes infection (about 8%). Herpes zoster in pregnant women, detected at a later date, threatens to provoke neonatal chickenpox in the baby. Treatment for herpes zoster during pregnancy is challenging.Strong antiviral agents can be toxic to the fetus. It is important to observe hygiene procedures – full treatment of the affected skin areas with pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs approved by the doctor.

Diagnosis of herpes zoster

Diagnosis of herpes zoster consists of two stages – a visual medical examination, as well as, if necessary, additional highly informative laboratory tests. In the case of an atypical form of the disease, the following can be prescribed: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), PCR analysis (polymerase chain reaction method), etc.However, with the characteristic clinical manifestations of herpes zoster, the diagnosis of this pathology includes:

• taking anamnesis;
• thorough examination of the patient (skin, mucous membranes, palpation of lymph nodes).

Treatment of herpes zoster

Treatment of herpes zoster has two goals – relieving acute symptoms and reducing the frequency and severity of relapses. Despite the huge range of modern medications, there is no drug that would completely cure herpes zoster.Depending on the severity of the manifestations of herpes zoster, treatment in adult patients consists of a set of measures:

• systemic antiviral therapy – drugs like Acyclovir are effective;
• to relieve pain, analgesics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are usually prescribed;
• the effects of intoxication are eliminated by antihistamines.

To activate the human immune system, the treatment of herpes zoster involves the use of immune-strengthening drugs.In the case of suppuration of the rash, i.e., a secondary bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Herpes zoster treatment in children

Herpes zoster: treatment in children, as in adults, is carried out on an outpatient basis. The indications for hospitalization of a child in the infectious diseases department are a severe course of the disease or complications from the central nervous system. When herpes zoster is diagnosed in children, treatment (in addition to drug therapy) may include treating the vesicles and crusts with brilliant green, as well as physiotherapy (for example, quartz or ultraviolet radiation).Such measures are very important to prevent the addition of a secondary bacterial infection.

Herpes zoster complications

With herpes zoster, complications occur mainly of a neurological nature. The most common is postherpetic neuralgia, which can present with debilitating pain for months or years. In addition, movement disorders are detected, sensitivity disorders develop. In case of ear or eye form of herpes zoster, the consequences are the most severe:

• hearing impairment;
• decreased visual acuity;
• inflammation of the facial nerve.

Secondary bactericidal infection attaches inflammatory complications to herpes zoster (eg, pneumonia).

Each case of the disease requires an individual approach in the treatment of herpes zoster. The specialized doctors of the Doctor Sam clinic will provide you with expert advice. For example, they will give competent recommendations on the nuances of the treatment of herpes zoster in the elderly or explain the need for timely vaccination.

Postherpetic neuralgia – treatment, symptoms, causes, diagnosis

Postherpetic neuralgia is a painful condition that usually follows an episode of herpes zoster.The term itself refers to a condition (pain after herpes).

Shingles (herpes zoster) – the cause is the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is in a latent state in the human body and for unknown reasons is activated and causes an episode of herpes zoster. The exact reasons for the activation of the virus are not yet known.

The reactivated virus spreads along the nerves, causing pain and the appearance of rashes or small blisters on the skin. Typically, a shingles rash and pain usually occurs on one side of the torso or head.Most often, rashes occur in the chest area. The disease usually lasts for several weeks and disappears without a trace. But sometimes the virus damages the nerve fibers, which is manifested by pain and other manifestations after the disappearance of the rash. This is postherpetic neuralgia

Symptoms of postherpetic neuralgia vary (depending on the individual characteristics of a particular person) and may include severe pain, numbness, tingling, paresthesia in the area affected by a viral infection.Postherpetic neuralgia can affect both daily life and working capacity in a negative way. But, at present, there are quite effective methods of treating this condition (physiotherapy, drug treatment).

Risk factors

Only those who have had chickenpox can get shingles. But there are certain groups more susceptible to postherpetic neuralgia:

• Age – The chance of postherpetic neuralgia is higher in the older age group.(30% of people over 60 years old who have had herpes zoster later suffer from postherpetic neuralgia) and only 10% in the younger group develop postherpetic neuralgia.
• Localization of the rash – the symptoms of neuralgia are more pronounced if the rash was in the forehead or eyes.
• Concomitant pathology – The presence of a suppressed immune system, (after chemotherapy or taking immunosuppressants) or diseases such as AIDS.

Early treatment of shingles is of great importance.Treatment started within 2–3 days of the onset of the rash can help reduce symptoms and avoid the risk of postherpetic neuralgia.

Reasons

Postherpetic neuralgia has a specific pathogenesis. Nerves are similar in structure to electrical wires that run throughout the body and conduct impulses from the central nervous system and back, with information about the state of organs and tissues. Sensory nerves transmit pain, temperature, tactile sensations.

Postherpetic neuralgia occurs when the herpes zoster virus damages sensory nerves. Damaged nerves begin to malfunction and send pain impulses to the central nervous system. This leads to the appearance of chronic pain or sensory disturbances in certain areas of the body.

Symptoms

Symptoms of postherpetic neuralgia usually occur only in the area of ​​the body affected by shingles and include:

• Pain (may be sharp, cutting, throbbing, burning),
• Numbness, tingling, itching
• Headaches if shingles is localized on the head or face
• Rarely, muscle weakness or paralysis if the nerve that innervates a particular muscle is damaged.

Sometimes patients have allodynia. Allodynia is not a reaction commensurate with the stimulus (that is, the patient reacts to minor stimuli such as a slight change in temperature or the touch of clothing with a pronounced pain syndrome).

Diagnosis

If pain occurs after an episode of rashes or sensory disturbances, you should consult a doctor. Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests (necessary to rule out other diseases).Instrumental diagnostic methods (CT, MRI, EMG, ultrasound) are prescribed only if there is a need for differential diagnosis.

Forecast

Exercise therapy, physiotherapy and drug treatment in most cases help to reduce symptoms and restore quality of life. Especially if the treatment is carried out in a timely manner.

Treatment

Drug treatment:

• Analgesics such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, Panadol, Tempra) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and celebrex.
• Opioids – A physician may prescribe opioid analgesics for severe pain that cannot be relieved by conventional analgesics, but these drugs must be administered with caution due to the risk of serious side effects. For example: this group includes tramadol or oxycodone. Some research suggests that oxycodone may also help reduce allodynia.
• antidepressants – These drugs are effective in the presence of depressive disorders. They also improve sleep (e.g. amitriptyline, simbalta, etc.)etc.).
• Anticonvulsants – Drugs in this group are intended primarily for the prevention of seizures. But sometimes they are quite effective for postherpetic neuralgia (neurontin, lyrica, topamax, carbamazepine).
• Blockade – Injections of a corticosteroid into the paravertebral points sometimes result in significant pain relief.
• Local anesthetics – ointments, gels containing analgesics or anesthetics (lidocaine). Helps to temporarily relieve symptoms.

Prevention

Certain antiviral drugs can help prevent or reduce the effects of shingles, thus reducing the risk of postherpetic neuralgia:

• Chickenpox Vaccine – The varicella-zoster virus (Varivax) vaccine is now a common childhood vaccine, but can also be recommended for older children and adults who have never had chickenpox. This vaccine does not guarantee that a person will not get chickenpox or shingles, but it can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms and the risk of complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.
• Shingles vaccine – (Zostavax) can be given to people over 60 years of age (who have had chickenpox but not shingles). Zostavax is not recommended for use in certain groups of people (for example, those undergoing cancer treatment or those with weakened immune systems).
• Antivirals – Antivirals such as acyclovir, valociclovir, famciclovir, when taken within the first 72 hours after the onset of herpes zoster, may help reduce the duration of herpes zoster and reduce the chance of developing postherpetic neuralgia.

Physiotherapy helps to relieve pain and inflammation. Various techniques are used (including percutaneous electrical stimulation).

Exercise therapy helps restore the elasticity of ligaments and muscles. Exercises can be carried out both on simulators and in the form of gymnastics.

Acupuncture. This method is effective enough to restore conduction and reduce pain.

90,000 How To Get Rid Of Herpes With Home Remedies In One Day

Today pharmaceuticals offer a huge number of remedies to combat herpes, but natural remedies have undeniable benefits.

Not so simple

More than two hundred types of herpes are known in the world: simple, chickenpox, herpes sore throat, shingles, cytomegalovirus. Doctors distinguish between eight types of infection, which have different manifestations. Herpes can be transmitted through any contact: handshakes, hugs, kisses, sex. It is impossible to avoid infection. According to statistics, 95% of people are carriers of herpes, but not everyone has it.The most common virus is the first type – herpes simplex or cold sore.

At the first symptoms

Doctors name several symptoms by which you can tell if you have a cold fever:

– discomfort, itching and tingling in the places where the virus is manifested;

– the appearance of small bubbles with liquid, increased pain;

– the bubbles burst, ulcers form in their place;

– the wounds heal, the dried crusts fall off, and the signs of the disease disappear.

Despite the fact that the virus is one of those diseases that “go away by themselves”, it is still necessary to treat it. Otherwise, if you do not observe hygiene standards, the virus, whose concentrate is enclosed in bubbles with liquid, will easily spread to others.

What are good folk remedies

Today, pharmaceuticals offer a huge number of remedies to combat herpes. However, natural remedies have several advantages: they are always at hand and do not give side effects, and therefore can be used to treat pregnant women and children.

• In the fight against colds, oils will help: fir, sea buckthorn, rosehip, tea tree, Siberian fir. At the first symptoms of “fever” on the lips, lubricate this place with oil and repeat the procedure every hour or two. Then the appearance of bubbles can be avoided. You need to apply oil with clean hands, with a cotton swab, in a circular motion, moving from the outer borders of the inflammation to the center.

• Also, at the first sign, Kalanchoe and aloe juices are excellent.Just break off a leaf of the flower, rinse it and gently lubricate the lip with the juice that has come out.

• An effective and inexpensive remedy is a triple cologne and salicylic acid 2%.

• Garlic is good in the fight against herpes. Mix one chopped clove with a coffee spoon of honey and dessert – fatty sour cream. Honey and sour cream are needed so that you do not get burned when you apply the mixture to the inflamed area.Then wipe with decoctions of chamomile or celandine.

Do all treatments with very gentle strokes to avoid damaging your skin.

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