Herpes zoster
Painful rash? Seek soothing solutions.
Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It can appear anywhere on the body but typically wraps around either the left or right side of the torso. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After someone has had chickenpox, the virus lies inactive in nerve tissue near the spinal cord and brain, and years later, it can reactivate as shingles. Symptoms include pain, burning, numbness, tingling, sensitivity to touch, a red rash that develops a few days after the pain, and fluid-filled blisters that break open and crust over. Treatment aims to shorten the length of the infection and reduce symptoms, which may include antiviral medication, pain relievers, and sometimes corticosteroids.
Access Telehealth allows you to consult with healthcare providers about herpes zoster. Through virtual consultations, you can discuss your symptoms, potentially receive a diagnosis, and get prescribed treatment to manage the condition, helping to reduce the severity and duration of the infection, all from the comfort and privacy of your home.
Precautions
- Keep the rash clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection. Gently washing the area with soap and water and patting it dry can help.
- Apply cool, wet compresses to the blisters to reduce pain and itching. Soaking a cloth in cool water and then applying it to the affected area can provide relief.
- Wear loose-fitting, natural fiber clothing to avoid irritating the rash further. Cotton clothing can be particularly gentle on sensitive skin.
Common Medications
- Antiviral medications such as Acyclovir (Zovirax), Valacyclovir (Valtrex), or Famciclovir (Famvir)
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications such as Naproxen (Aleve) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Topical treatments such as Lidocaine patches (Lidoderm), Capsaicin cream, or Calamine lotion
Access Telehealth is as Easy as 1, 2, 3
Share Your Health Concerns
Complete a brief online health survey to share your health history and current condition. This quick assessment helps personalize recommendations.
Engage with a Provider
Your responses will be evaluated by a board-certified physician who will then send a specific treatment plan, ensuring you care is individualized.
Experience Access Telehealth Care
Get responses from your healthcare team through secure messaging and receive medication from your preferred pharmacy.
The Access Telehealth Pledge
Excellent Care
Access Telehealth is committed to employing only the finest, fully licensed, and board-certified providers.
Value Oriented
Access Telehealth is dedicated to providing patients budget-friendly medical services.
Patient Centric
We prioritize your health, trust, and safety. Our goal is to be your primary choice for healthcare.