Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It shows up as a rash on one side of the body with strong nerve pain. Many people are now trying acupuncture to feel better. This blog will explain what shingles are, their symptoms, and how acupuncture can help.
UNDERSTANDING THE SHINGLES VIRUS
Shingles comes from the varicella-zoster virus, which stays quiet in your nerves after having chickenpox. But sometimes, it wakes up later in life, causing shingles. It can happen at any age but is most common in older adults and those with weak immune systems. It usually starts with a tingling or burning feeling, followed by a painful rash with blisters. The rash often forms a belt-like shape on one side of the body or face. Shingles can bring various symptoms that affect people’s physical and emotional health. Sometimes, it can lead to problems like skin infections, vision or hearing issues, and nerve problems. So, getting treatment early is crucial to prevent issues and manage symptoms.
COMMON SYMPTOMS AND CHALLENGES
Rash and Blisters: The main symptom of shingles is the rash with blisters. It can be itchy and hurt when touched, causing discomfort.
Nerve Pain:
Some people may have chronic pain even after the rash heals.
Fever and Fatigue:
Shingles can make you feel like you have the flu, with fever and tiredness.
Emotional Distress:
Dealing with the pain, discomfort, and slow healing of shingles can be emotionally taxing.
ACUPUNCTURE CAN HELP
Pain Relief:
Acupuncture can help reduce shingles pain by releasing natural painkillers in the body. Needles placed in specific spots target the affected nerves, promoting relaxation, better blood flow, less inflammation, faster healing, and PAIN RELIEF.
Nerve Healing:
Acupuncture can help nerves heal and lessen nerve pain. By targeting the affected nerves, acupuncture can reduce the long-lasting pain many people experience after having shingles.
Immune Support:
Shingles often happens when the immune system weakens. Acupuncture can boost the immune system, helping the body better fight the virus.
Stress Reduction:
Stress can weaken the immune system and potentially trigger shingles. Acupuncture helps manage stress, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being. Lowering stress levels will also help prevent or reduce the severity of shingles outbreaks.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Shingles can be painful and distressing. Adding acupuncture to your treatment plan will offer relief and improve your overall well-being, during your experience of shingles. Acupuncture can help reduce pain, encourage nerve healing, support the immune system, and reduce the stress you may be experiencing.
At Acupuncture of West Florida, Dr. Kim Windschauer has a lot of experience treating shingles, and has helped many patients to feel better. She uses acupuncture and other therapies to get the best results. After evaluating each patient, she will decide which approach would work best for your specific needs. She creates a tailored treatment plan for each patient based on exactly where they are in the healing process. Whether you have just begun your experience with shingles or have been dealing with the chronic pain for some time, Dr. Kim has answers. If you want relief and are considering acupuncture for shingles, contact us at Acupuncture of West Florida for a free consultation with Dr. Kim. You can discuss your concerns and potential treatment options. We’re here to help you get better.
