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Suggest Treatment For Shingles In A Person Diagnosed With Dementia

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Posted on Wed, 17 May 2017
Question: My husband has dementia and now he has shingles...Doctor we saw said it was after the 48 hr treatment window and we would have to wait it out....is there anything I can do to make it more comfortable or helpful?
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Please see the detailed answer below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello! I have been through your question.

Regarding your concern, you should note that there is no absolute cure for shingles but prompt treatment with the antiviral (like Acyclovir or Valacyclovir) can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk for complications.

Usually, it is recommended to start the treatment with antiviral for a better result as soon as possible from the start of symptoms. If he began the antiviral treatment within 3 days of seeing the shingles rash then he has a lower chance of having postherpetic neuralgia.

Furthermore, as per your query, if your husband has severe pain, he should use Ibuprophen or Capsaicin cream or Gabapentin, this should ease those symptoms.

I hope my answer helps you.

I wish your husband a quick recovery. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards.

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Monika Dede

Infectious Diseases Specialist

Practicing since :2003

Answered : 1005 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Shingles In A Person Diagnosed With Dementia

Brief Answer: Please see the detailed answer below. Detailed Answer: Hello! I have been through your question. Regarding your concern, you should note that there is no absolute cure for shingles but prompt treatment with the antiviral (like Acyclovir or Valacyclovir) can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk for complications. Usually, it is recommended to start the treatment with antiviral for a better result as soon as possible from the start of symptoms. If he began the antiviral treatment within 3 days of seeing the shingles rash then he has a lower chance of having postherpetic neuralgia. Furthermore, as per your query, if your husband has severe pain, he should use Ibuprophen or Capsaicin cream or Gabapentin, this should ease those symptoms. I hope my answer helps you. I wish your husband a quick recovery. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards.