Shingles is an acute reactivation infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (This is the same virus that causes chickenpox, It isn’t known what reactivates the virus.). Anyone who’s had chickenpox previously may develop shingles. Herpes zoster is most prevalent in those over 50 years of age. Although shingles isn’t a life-threatening condition, it can be very painful. Since shingles isn’t very contagious those who have never contracted chickenpox are not likely to develop shingles.

The recurrence rate of shingles can be high. Professional advice should be sought if a shingles eruption continues for longer than two weeks or if it has become generalized.

Symptoms:

Shingles causes a painful rash that may appear anywhere on the body, however it is usually found on the abdomen below the ribs. Shingles is often preceded by fever, chills and body aches a couple of days before the attack.

The rash will present as small fluid-filled blisters surrounded by a red rim that appear on the skin, the affected area is extremely sensitive and painful to the touch. The rash may last from 7 to 14 days by which time the blisters form crusty scabs that will eventually drop off. In very severe cases scarring may occur. Other symptoms may include fatigue, depression, tingling shooting pains, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and headache.

Complications from shingles may include:
1. Postherpetic neuralgia. Where pain continues long after the blisters have cleared. Postherpetic neuralgia occurs when damaged nerve fibers send confused and exaggerated messages of pain from the skin to the brain.

2. Shingles located around an eye (ophthalmic shingles) may cause painful eye infections that can result in vision loss.

3. Shingles can cause an inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), facial paralysis, hearing or balance problems depending on which nerves are affected,

4. If shingles blisters aren’t properly treated, bacterial skin infections may develop.

5. For those already suffering from immune deficiencies, shingles can be quite serious, attacking the lungs, kidneys, and liver.

Treatments:

Treatment will focus on pain management, minimizing discomfort, and prevention of possible complications

1. Antiviral treatment, pain medication, and supplementation to boost the immune system,

2. Keep stress to a minimum.

3. Avoid touching or scratching the blisters. Wash blisters gently when bathing or showering. Topical ointments such as calamine lotion may provide relief.

4. Allow affected areas to receive at least 15 min of direct sunlight each day.

5. If the shingles appear on the forehead, the tip of the nose, or near the eyes consult an ophthalmologist since untreated ophthalmic herpes zoster can lead to vision loss.

Nutrients and supplements:
1. MMS – is a strong immune booster and may be used for viral, bacterial, and parasitic conditions
2. Immune Support – supports a low immune system.
3. Buffered Vitamin C – boosts immunity.
4. Zinc – enhances the immune system and protects against infection.
5. Colloidal silver – is a natural antibiotic and has been shown particular effectiveness in fighting shingles.
6. Vitamin B complex – is a nerve tonic.
7. Brewer’s Yeast – is high in B vitamins.
8. Black Walnut Hulls – balance and heal the immune system.
9. Reishi mushrooms – have immune boosting and antiviral properties.
10. Vitamin E – prevents the formation of scar tissue and alleviates pain.
11. Vitamin D3 – is an antioxidant and improves the immune system. D3 also aids in tissue healing.
12. Olive leaf extract – has anti-viral properties.

Causes:

It is unclear what causes shingles however there are several factors that can increase the risk of an attack such as stress, trauma, conditions that suppress the immune system, HIV, the use of corticosteroids and cyclosporin.

Underlying Emotions:

Oversensitivity. Feeling overburdened by life, weighed down by other people’s problems, particularly those of your parents. Bonding with parents may have been problematic due to their emotional absence. Not being acknowledged by authority figures, created a strong desire for recognition, leading to overcompensation by taking on too much responsibility.

Diet:

Increase intake of raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, mung beans, daikon radish, carrots, lemon, garlic, foods rich in Vitamins B vitamins, Vitamin C, and Zinc.