Shingles

[karlyg]

shingles

I just got back from a visit to my family doc for a rash I have on my lower back, and it turns out that I have shingles. No wonder the "rash" hurts like hell and looks like chicken pox! Anyone else here experienced this? I understand shingles hits people with compromised immune systems...I guess it's just another awesome surprise visitor!

 

[Cog]

Sorry to hear that hopefully it is a mild dose

I caught that just before the surgery. Did the Doc put you Valtrex or something for it? They gave me something and it quitenned down pretty quick, even though the drug is supposed to be only effective if taken within so many days of symptoms appearing. (Natuaally I had delayed getting diagnosed.) Did stop any new spots appearing.

 

[bayguy13]

I've had it twice... I think it had to do with being under stress.

 

[killerzoey]

I had shingles about 15 years ago. I only had two or three bumps and they hurt SO bad. I can't imagine having a whole rash of them!

FYI the doctor told me to be so careful not to expose others to it. Especially nowadays there are probably people who haven't had chicken pox or the vaccine either. It can be really hard on an adult.

The doctor didn't give me Valtrex, just Vicodin. It ran its course in a week or so. I hope yours is over soon.

Grapefruit seed extract might help, too. It's a natural anti-viral, I believe.

 

[karlyg]

Fortunately, it seems to be a relatively mild case. I have an area on my lower back of about 2 inches by 5 inches with the spots, and it is pretty painful, but bearable with pain meds (Ultracet). I'm also on 3g of Valtrex a day, so I think it should clear up soon. I was worried because I had spent the weekend playing with my 2 and a half year old nephew who hasn't had chicken pox or the vaccine yet, but my doctor said that as long as he didn't touch it (he didn't), the chances of him getting it were pretty low. But my sister (his mom) is definitely keeping her eye out for any spots or itching! I'd feel so bad if I gave it to him...but I think he'll be alright.

 

[Cog]

Great to hear that, catching it early is the key. Hopefully your nephew will be fine too