You will also spread bacteria with your hands if you scratch at the blisters. If this does happen inadvertently, always wash your hands afterward to stay hygienic.
Apply a paste made of 3 teaspoons baking soda mixed with 1 teaspoon of water. This relieves itching and helps the blisters dry out quicker. You can apply this paste as often as needed to relieve the itching.
You can make a cold compress by wrapping an ice block in a clean towel and pressing it against your skin. Alternatively, you can use a bag of frozen vegetables. Just make sure not to put it directly on your skin and not to keep it on your skin for more than 20 minutes at a time as both of these conditions can lead to tissue damage.
As an alternative, talk to your doctor about prescription 5% Lidocaine patches. You can apply the patch to the area where you’re experiencing the pain, as long as your skin is intact. You can apply as many as 3 patches at once. You can wear your patches for up to 12 hours in a 24 hour period.
A fever An increase in inflammation that causes additional pain The sore feels warm to the touch The sore is shiny and smooth Your symptoms are getting worse
Burow’s solution has antibacterial and astringent properties. You can purchase it without a prescription at your local pharmacy. Instead of soaking your sores, you can also apply the Burow’s solution directly onto your sores via the cold compress. You can apply the compress for up to 20 minutes, several times a day.
These are available at most pharmacies and online. Stronger patches may be available through your doctor.
Examples of NSAIDs include acetaminophen, ibuprofen or indomethacin. These medications can be taken up to three times per day – just be sure to follow the label for instructions on the appropriate dosage for you.
Talk to your doctor about this option. Effective (that is, stronger) corticosteroids are available by prescription only.
In addition, narcotics are addictive substances which the patient can quickly become dependent on. Therefore their use must be carefully monitored by a physician.
For the above two steps, your doctor will know if these are viable treatments for you. In general, these two are reserved for more serious cases of nerve pain.
This is a procedure done by a medical professional. Your health history and condition will determine if this is a suitable route to pursue.
Exactly how these impulses relieve pain is uncertain. One theory is that the impulses stimulate the production of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers. Unfortunately, this treatment doesn’t work for everyone, but it tends to be more effective if it is given in conjunction with a drug called pregabalin.
Before the device is surgically implanted, doctors do a trial first using a thin wire electrode. The trial is done to ensure that the stimulator will provide effective pain relief. The electrode is inserted through your skin into the epidural space over the spinal cord for a spinal cord stimulator, or under your skin above a peripheral nerve in the case of a peripheral nerve stimulator.
Up to five days after the appearance of these initial symptoms, a painful rash may appear on one side of the face or body.
If you begin taking your antiviral medication after 48 hours, it may not be as effective. Additionally, keep in mind that your antivirals won’t prevent PHN.
Caladryl works by interfering with the pain signals the nerves send to the brain and is available in gel, lotion, spray or stick form. Caladryl may be applied every 6 hours, up to 4 times a day. You need to wash and dry the affected area prior to application. As another option, ask your doctor about prescription 5% Lidocaine (Lipoderm) adhesive patches. You can apply the patches to intact skin to help manage your pain. For an over-the-counter option, use capsaicin cream (Zostrix, Zostrix HP). Apply the cream to intact skin 3 to 4 times per day. The cream may cause a burning or stinging sensation when you apply it, but this side effect should go away. If it doesn’t, stop using the cream. Be sure to wash and dry your hands thoroughly after you apply the cream. [23] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source
All drugs have side effects. Possible side effects of these medications include memory issues, sedation, electrolyte imbalances, and liver issues. Talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects. [24] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source
Your doctor will only prescribe corticosteroids if you aren’t taking medications that interact with them. Make sure you tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking. For example, your doctor might prescribe up to 60 mg of prednisone for up to 10-14 days, tapering you off before you stop taking the medication.
