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Diagnosed With Shingles. Have An Amphetamine Habit. Dis This Cause Shingles?
Hi I am 20 yrs of age and have just been diagnosed with shingles . The problem is I have an amphetamine habit (been addicted 2 yrs). It is possible that this has caused the shingles but also it could be dwn to poor hygiene and excessive smoking which I am cutting dwn. The pain that accompanies the shingles infection is so severe that it prevents me from being able to live a normal life and ironically it seems that the amphetamines is the only antidote to this pain that allows me to function normally. I can t stop the amphetamines but would like advice on managing the shingles whilst taking the drug. I would be ever so thankful if you could offer me some of your value info. All my thanks and regards. Jae.
Sat, 10 Aug 2013
Hi and thanks for posting on HCM.
Amphetamines don't cause shingles. The number one reason while people have shingles is that the immune system has been weakened. May be your drugs and excess smoking are preventing you fro eating well, staying healthy and maintaining a strong immune system. Shingles is caused by herpes zoster virus. Also, you may want to do an HIV test as this is the leading cause of a weak immune system in youths.
Please, do all it takes to get off drugs, Talk to your doctor and he will be of great help to see you stop this. He will also propose another drug to help control the pain.
Hope this helps and answers you query. If you have more questions, please feel free to contact us.
Dr. Ditah, MD
Amphetamines don't cause shingles. The number one reason while people have shingles is that the immune system has been weakened. May be your drugs and excess smoking are preventing you fro eating well, staying healthy and maintaining a strong immune system. Shingles is caused by herpes zoster virus. Also, you may want to do an HIV test as this is the leading cause of a weak immune system in youths.
Please, do all it takes to get off drugs, Talk to your doctor and he will be of great help to see you stop this. He will also propose another drug to help control the pain.
Hope this helps and answers you query. If you have more questions, please feel free to contact us.
Dr. Ditah, MD
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