Shingles Treatment in Austin, TX

What Are Shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. Once you’ve had chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in your nervous system. Later in life, it can reactivate as shingles, leading to a painful rash that often appears as skin patches on one side of the body. The rash is typically accompanied by intense nerve pain and discomfort. Shingles can occur in anyone, but is most common in older adults or those with a weakened immune system. Early intervention and treatment options are crucial to ease nerve pain and reduce the risk of complications like postherpetic neuralgia.

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How Does Shingles Affect the Body?

The virus that causes shingles infects the nervous system, leading to a painful rash that typically develops in the form of small, fluid-filled blisters. The affected area is often accompanied by severe burning, itching, or tingling. For many, the pain can persist even after the rash heals, a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia. This condition causes ongoing nerve pain that can last for months or even years after the shingles rash disappears. Immediate treatment can help manage the pain and prevent complications, improving overall quality of life.

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Causes of Shingles

The primary cause of shingles is the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. The reactivation of the virus leads to the development of shingles. Some key risk factors include:

Age: Shingles is more common in individuals over 50 years old.
Weakened Immune System: Conditions such as cancer, HIV, or medications like chemotherapy can increase the risk.
History of Chickenpox: Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles later in life.

Red blistering rash on skin caused by the shingles virus

Symptoms of Shingles

The most common symptoms of shingles include:

Pain or burning: Often the first sign of shingles, which can occur even before the rash appears.
Rash: A red, blistering skin rash that appears on one side of the body, typically around the torso or face.
Tingling or itching: Sensations in the affected area of the skin.
Fever: A mild fever is common in the early stages.
Fatigue: Feelings of exhaustion can accompany the condition.

Treatment for Shingles in the Greater Austin Area

At Greater Austin Pain Center, we offer a variety of treatment options to manage shingles and ease nerve pain. Our goal is to reduce the severity of the rash, ease the pain, and prevent complications such as postherpetic neuralgia. Here are the most common shingles treatment methods.
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1. Antiviral Medications

Doctors will prescribe antiviral medication as the first step to treat shingles. Early treatment with medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir can help reduce the severity of the rash, decrease pain, and shorten the duration of the outbreak. These medications are most effective when prescribed within 72 hours of the onset of symptoms.
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2. Pain Management

Shingles can cause intense nerve pain, which can be difficult to manage. We offer several options to help ease nerve pain:

Oral steroids: To reduce inflammation and ease pain.
Topical creams: Such as lidocaine patches or capsaicin cream to reduce pain in the affected area.
Tricyclic antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, are often prescribed for postherpetic neuralgia to help manage chronic nerve pain.
Other medications: Anti-seizure medications, like gabapentin or pregabalin, may also be prescribed to manage nerve pain.

3. Shingles Vaccine

One of the most effective ways to prevent shingles is to get the shingles vaccine. The vaccine, known as Shingrix, is recommended for individuals aged 50 and older and can significantly reduce the risk of developing shingles and its complications. Even if you’ve had shingles before, the vaccine can help prevent future outbreaks.

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4. Early Intervention

Prompt treatment is key to preventing complications and reducing the severity of the symptoms. Early intervention with antiviral medications and pain management can help speed up recovery and reduce the risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia or other serious complications.

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5. Preventing Complications

The most common complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia, which causes persistent pain in the area where the rash appeared. Pain relief strategies, including medications and physical therapy, can help manage this condition. If you’re developing shingles or have a history of chickenpox, consider early intervention to prevent complications.

Shingles Treatment Plan at Greater Austin Pain Center

If you are experiencing symptoms of shingles, it’s important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Our team of healthcare providers will assess your medical history and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Early intervention with antiviral medications, pain management, and ongoing care can help ease nerve pain and prevent complications.

If you have shingles or suspect you might be developing shingles, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the treatment you need to alleviate the pain and manage the condition effectively.

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Am I at Risk of Developing Shingles?

Shingles is most commonly associated with individuals who have previously had chickenpox, as the virus that causes chickenpox (varicella zoster virus) remains dormant in the nervous system. However, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing shingles or experiencing its complications.

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Weakened Immune System

A weakened immune system due to conditions such as HIV, cancer, or medication like chemotherapy makes it easier for the varicella zoster virus to reactivate, leading to shingles.

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Age

Individuals over the age of 50 are at a higher risk of shingles, as the immune system naturally weakens with age. Older adults are more likely to experience severe pain and complications.

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Medical Conditions

Chronic medical conditions like diabetes or arthritis can increase the chances of developing shingles. These conditions can weaken the immune system, making it easier for the virus to reactivate.

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Stress

Stress can trigger the reactivation of herpes zoster. Emotional or physical stress can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of shingles outbreaks.

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Not Receiving the Shingles Vaccine

The shingles vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles, especially for individuals over 50. It helps strengthen the immune system’s ability to fight off the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus.

Testimonials

At Greater Austin Pain Center, we understand how painful shingles can be, and we are proud to offer effective shingles treatment options to relieve symptoms. Our team of specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care for every patient.

"I am so relieved I could cry! Finally a pain specialist who listens, cares, and wants to help! Dr. Alan Silberberg has given me so much hope! As someone who has seen pain specialists for decades in different states, this is where you want to come. You NEED him in your life! My only regret is not coming in sooner."

Sarah Jean C.

"The staff is very friendly and I was seen on time. The intake process was seamless and efficient. Dr. Jarzombeck is always very kind and thorough in her explanations. These folks are a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Greater Austin Pain Center and Dr. Jarzombeck!"

Kim D.

"Everyone is always very nice and courteous. Dr. Julia is amazing! He is friendly, kind and caring and so easy to talk with. All the office staff I have had contact with has always been courteous and kind as well. Would highly recommend coming here!"

Lesley C.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does shingles last?

The duration of shingles can vary. Typically, the shingles rash lasts about 2 to 4 weeks, but the pain may persist longer, especially in cases where postherpetic neuralgia develops. In some cases, nerve pain can last for months or even years.

Can shingles be prevented?

Yes! The shingles vaccine is the most effective way to prevent shingles and its complications. It's recommended for individuals over the age of 50. If you've already had chickenpox, you're still at risk, but the vaccine can significantly reduce the likelihood of the virus reactivating.

What if my shingles pain persists?

If your pain persists or worsens after the rash heals, you may have postherpetic neuralgia, a complication of shingles that causes chronic nerve pain. In such cases, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for pain management strategies and nerve pain relief.

How is shingles treated?

Treatment for shingles typically includes antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of the infection. Pain management options include oral steroids, topical creams, and medications such as tricyclic antidepressants or anti-seizure drugs to ease nerve pain. Early intervention is crucial for reducing the risk of serious complications like postherpetic neuralgia.

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What Are Shingles?