How Long Does Swelling Take To Subside After Shingles Attack?

Posted on Tue, 3 Jun 2014

Question: I had swelling on left side , then the shingles came on fast. On my last day of pills anti virus. shingles are getting better, does swellings take a little longer?

Answered by Dr. Muhammed Aslam (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Yes,it can take few more days.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I am Dr Aslam here to help you.

Shingles are caused by reactivation of dormant viruses in our nerve tissue. It is characterized by vesicles on an inflammatory base. The vesicles usually gets better by 7-10 days of antiviral treatment. But the itching/pain,and inflammatory base(swelling) can take few more days (up to 2-4 weeks) for complete resolution.

Since you are on path towards recovery, I wouldn't be concerned about it. If necessary, you can be started on antiinflammatory drugs to fasten the process of healing. Your treating doctor will guide you in this.

Meanwhile,keep the area clean and moist(wet soaking helps itching).
If there is itching,keep finger nails closely cropped.
Take enough fruits and veges.Adequate vitamins and minerals speeds up recovery.

Hope I have answered your query.If you have any further query,i will be happy to help.Wishing you a faster cure.Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Muhammed Aslam (13 days later)

Hi----Into my forth week-of recovering from shingles and swellings. I really had a bad case of it. Back to belly . Thank God had not much pain. Recovering is slow,still redness and swellings, is this unusual? I did read a lot of people are different in how long it takes.The redness has improved . Swelling is taking its time. I have been to the doctor. He thinks its 65% better. Sometimes we forget to ask questions?

Answered by Dr. Muhammed Aslam (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It is not unusual.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear,
I thought you got it cured.Anyhow you are on the way down.You need not worry.It may take up to 4 weeks for complete recovery(some take still longer if they have any other chronic illnesses like diabetes).
As I told earlier,take enough green leafy veges and fruits.

Wishing you healthy days ahead.
Thank you.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj