shingles

[trish699]

I was diagnosed with Shingles on Monday. Although i had only one small red spot, I experienced three days of extremely intense back and uterine pain prior to my doctor visit. On Tuesday, a rash, wrapping around my middrift ,appeared. The pain intensified to the point of  no return. (I suffered nerve damage from a botched angiogram in July/09, so I know pain well.)

My question is: Would the Valtrex (antiviral) be ineffective because it was administered after the intense pain had begun? Also, I am 5 days in with the angry looking rash, but it has not scabbed over, nor has it blistered.  Has the Valtrex prevented it from doing so, or is this yet to happen? Can I get the rash wet?  
Thanks,
Trish699

[trish699]

Thank you for your response. I have finished the anti-viral drug and had an antibiotic ointment perscribed. Although my intense pain has decreased, I am still very uncomfortable. It has been 2 weeks since the outbreak. I am considering Lyrica, because of the intensity of my pain. Codine is bringing on another ulcer, so I must give it up.I took Lyrica at a low dose for 5 months after surgical nerve damage, last January.It was hell to wean off, but I'm feeling desperate. Do you know how long it takes to develop a dependency? Thanks. Trish699

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Antiviral drugs should be initiated when the blisters appear. You should continue taking Valtrex( antiviral) drugs because it prevents complications. You can also take over-the-counter pain medicines, such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen, to help reduce pain during an attack of shingles and antibiotics to prevent any infection. Please consult a dermatologist and get them prescribed.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.