- To shorten the duration of the outbreak
- To minimize the pain
- To prevent occurrence of complications
- To prevent occurrence of post herpetic neuralgia
- Use of corticosteroids orally and topically along with painkillers to reduce the pain and inflammation.
- Antiviral medications if given early (within 48 to 72 hours) may decrease the time for formation of new vesicles. Antivirals are also prescribed when the eyes get involved.
- Treatment of post herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is extremely difficult and complex. It usually includes neuroactive agents, anticonvulsant agents as well as systemic and topical narcotic and non-narcotic agents.
- In exceptional cases, Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and neurosurgery have been found to be useful in Shingles (Herpes Zoster) treatment.
Conventional treatments, although most may be effective, provide but temporary relief to the patient. What is needed is a therapeutic mode that ensures long-lasting relief and prevention.
