Shingles is caused by the VZ virus or the varicella zoster virus; VZ is the same virus that triggers chickenpox. After you have had chickenpox, VZ virus stays dormant in the nerve tissue near the brain and the spinal cord. The virus may revive, years later and produce shingles.
Shingles isn’t life-threatening; nonetheless, it can be excruciatingly painful.
Shingles is a viral infection which manifests as a rash which is known to be rather painful. The rash can occur anywhere on the body, however, it is, by and large seen as one band of blisters wrapping around the left or right side of the torso. Seldom, shingles may develop on the neck instead of the torso.
What Causes Shingles On The Neck?
Shingles is caused by the Varicella-zoster virus. One who has had chickenpox may develop shingles later. After you have recovered from chickenpox, the virus gains entry in to the nervous system and stays inactive for years.
The reason why it gets reactivated is ambiguous. Experts say that low levels of immunity trigger their reactivation.
Varicella-zoster belongs to the herpes viruses, which also encompasses viruses which cause cold sores and genital herpes. On the other hand, the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles is not the same virus which causes cold sores or genital herpes.
One who has shingles can pass the virus to someone who is not immune to chickenpox. Transmission occurs via direct contact with the open sores of the rash. Once infected, the person will develop chickenpox, not shingles.
Symptoms Of Shingles On Neck
Shingles on the neck is seen as:
- Pain is usually the first manifesting feature.
- A red rash starts a few days after the pain has commenced.
- Occasional tingling numbness is seen too.
- Fluid-filled blisters develop thereafter; and they break open and crust over.
- Itching of the skin.
- Fever and chills may occur.
- Headache.
- Exhaustion.
Home Remedies To Treat Shingles On Neck
There is no cure for shingles, however, timely management of the case with antiviral medications helps accelerate the process of healing and decrease one’s chances of developing complications. Doctors advocate symptomatic management to successfully handle a case of shingles.
- Doctors also prescribe anti-convulsants in severe cases.
- Confer with your health care provider, he may also prescribe a numbing agent in case your pain is excruciating.
- Medications that contain narcotics may be given too.
- Taking a cool bath is advocated; and so is using cool, wet compresses over the blisters; this will help allay the pain, itching and discomfort.
- Essential oils are recommended too. Blend 2 drops of tea tree essential oil with 2 drops of lavender essential oil. Add to a bowl of cold water and use over the blister 4 to 5 times daily. This affords considerable relief. Tea tree essential oil is medicinal oil which helps in most stubborn cases of infection; whilst lavender helps soothe the irritated skin effectively.
- Garlic is an excellent home remedy to combat shingles infection. Have 3 to 5 flakes of raw garlic; it helps the sores to heal quickly.