What is the treatment for rashes caused due to shingles?
Patient: I am 56 years old. I have shingles for the second time in 6 months. This time the rash is on my arm near my elbow, about the size of an egg in size. The rash has lasted now for almost 3 months. It got better after about one month, but now has just stayed the same with no further improvement. Should I be concerned that it is not going away? Doctor: Hello,Welcome to HCM.Varicella zooster or shingles is a viral infection caused by human herpes virus III. The lesions can present in any part of the body and distributed along the affected nerve dermatome.The virus remains as dormant in the nerve endings for very long period, when ever the body immunity comes down it will flare up produces the rash on the particular nerve distribution.This is a self limiting disease and it will reduce by itself.I would suggest you to Apply cold packs on the lesion which will reduces the hives and pain,You can apply antiviral and steroid cream on the lesion.Oral antiviral drugsoral antihistamines.Thank you.