If you have any new symptoms, such as a fever, go back in, okay?

It's never nothing, is it?!!

I noticed I'm starting to have on my genetals to I need to worry?

I'm so sorry, Snoel. You don't have to worry, per se. Keep the area as "aired out" as possible (not too moist).

Are you taking Tylenol/acetominophen? That might be the best thing for any pain.

The signs to worry about are an increase in pain, pain elsewhere (i.e., abdominal, head pain), fever, dizziness, etc.

It can take a couple of days for the drugs to kick in. Pamper yourself and rest/sleep a bunch. Have chicken soup or other meals packed with nutrition. They have actually proven that chicken soup ingredients are good for viruses/bacteria (PubMed).

Gross alert!

Be careful when you wipe. Dab lightly. Wipe 1 and 2 areas separately. Since Shingles are basically open sores, you don't want to infect them as well, meaning add a bacterial infection on top of the viral one.

Cold can help with pain, but something that is too cold will make the nerves worse (cold-induced injury).

Shingles can cause scarring—just as chicken pox can—but hopefully you won't have any! That's why you should be gentle "down there."

If you have a primary doctor, they would probably be able to give you more tips.

If things worsen in any way, it's best to go to the ER.

It's hard to wait something like this out. Stressing out about it will only make your immune system worse! Try to get your mind off it with good music, a movie, or whatever makes you happy.

And if anyone you know is sick, tell them to stay the heck away from you right now!!! You aren't a danger to others, they are to you!


Annie

I have a cream or ointment called Fuducin H that I had prescribed for another skin rash awhile back with it be safe to use on infected area...

The cream is an anti-inflammatory with hydrocortisone in it.
This acts as an immune suppressor, and may flare shingles or herpes simplex.

You should contact a doctor before using anything while you are under treatment.

You don't want to clog up the infection with creams. Ditto on what Mrs. D said. Call your doctor before using any other product!

I understand your wanting to do as much as you can, but you are already. Let the drugs kick in. Try not to worry!

I was extremely tired for one month during Shingles. The rash subsided fairly quickly, but my body was still fighting it. So take extra care of yourself!!!

If it makes you feel better to talk to a doctor, then call your PCP's office.

Annie

I'll try to keep calm...it's just that some other areas seem to pop up and makes question if it's normal or not, I have a bit of a temp 37.4 Which isn't terrible and feel good, is it ok to take Advil extra strength for pain before going to bed that is when the PAIN gets really bad!!!!