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Suggest Treatment For Shingles While On Aleve
I have self diagnosed my issue as having shingles. It has been about two weeks now and I have been taking Aleve for the pain and Bacitracin for the rash. The rash looks better but it really hurts. Something resembling many needles stabbing me. I do not have insurance so I was hoping for something over the counter to help. At this point, a Doctor may be needed. Please advise.
Tue, 28 Jan 2020
Hi,
It rash is typical of shingles or herpes, you should have reviewed it with a dermatologist and anti virals like acyclovir might have been needed within 3 days of onset to limit the spread etc., however now supportive treatment can be helpful. The history is suggestive of shingles and OTC analgesics like acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can be continued along with more potent analgesic like tramadol or gabapentin. Nerve pain suppressants are more helpful than simple analgesics. Topical anti virals may not be helpful at this stage. Rarely it can persist as post herpetic neuralgia for which a clinical review may be helpful.
Wishing you a speedy recovery. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin, General & Family Physician
It rash is typical of shingles or herpes, you should have reviewed it with a dermatologist and anti virals like acyclovir might have been needed within 3 days of onset to limit the spread etc., however now supportive treatment can be helpful. The history is suggestive of shingles and OTC analgesics like acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can be continued along with more potent analgesic like tramadol or gabapentin. Nerve pain suppressants are more helpful than simple analgesics. Topical anti virals may not be helpful at this stage. Rarely it can persist as post herpetic neuralgia for which a clinical review may be helpful.
Wishing you a speedy recovery. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin, General & Family Physician
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