[Will's little sis]

My sweet older brother (57) arrived from TN to MI yesterday. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's 3 years ago, although he had tremors years before that and is on SS disability. S I do know that this is a progressive situation. He drove alone and arrived yesterday. He asked me to look at his back and see if there was anything externally that might explain his remark that it was painful. Something that looked like a chigger bite was visible. Today, it is apparent that the man has shingles. I know (now) that he must have an antiviral injection within 72 hours. I so wonder what to do as I am only just today learning about PD and now this unfortunate complication. Any suggestions, PLEASE???

Kristie

[Stitcher]

Kristie, Since he is not from MI and his primary care doctor is not available, I would suggest you take him to an ER for evaluation. You are right about this anti-viral treatment. Shingles is nothing to leave on its own! Be sure he has all his meds with him when you take him.

Is there any treatment?

The severity and duration of an attack of shingles can be significantly reduced by immediate treatment with antiviral drugs, which include acyclovir, valcyclovir, or famcyclovir.

Antiviral drugs may also help stave off the painful after-effects of shingles known as postherpetic neuralgia.

Other treatments for postherpetic neuralgia include steroids, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and topical agents.

What is the prognosis?

For most people, the lesions heal, the pain subsides within 3 to 5 weeks, and the blisters leave no scars.

However, shingles is a serious threat in immunosuppressed individuals — for example, those with HIV infection or who are receiving cancer treatments that can weaken their immune systems. People who receive organ transplants are also vulnerable to shingles because they are given drugs that suppress the immune system.

[gaykir]

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