Ask a doctor on the topic of General medicine

shingles

August 21, 2014 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Hello,

I have a general question about shingles. Some say that shingles only break out once. Others say that while shingles can often break out, it does not occur in the same place. Others again say that if the immune system is weakened and one is stressed, it can break out more frequently in the same place. What is correct?

I had shingles for the first time about 3 years ago with terrible pain in my thigh. I was prescribed strong painkillers, Aciclovir, and zinc ointment. Now it keeps breaking out in the same place whenever I am under a lot of stress. My doctor said I should apply a herpes ointment when I feel it is about to break out again, as this would help to alleviate it. Although I do not have as severe pain as the first time, it is still very distressing and uncomfortable.

Now my question is: Is there no way to stop these outbreaks? Will I always have to fear these outbreaks during stressful periods?

I am female, 33 years old.

Thank you in advance.

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Hello,

Since shingles is caused by a virus that remains in our nerve endings after a chickenpox infection, it can reappear time and time again (even in the same spot).

Herpes ointment (e.g. Aciclovir) will not help if the blisters are already present! In that case, it is better to treat with Anaesthesulf-Mixtur, for example.

You should boost your immune system through exercise, not smoking, a vitamin-rich diet, and sufficient relaxation periods. Hopefully, eventually you will have enough antibodies to keep the virus in check.

Similar to cold sores, unfortunately you will always be somewhat vulnerable. However, in the case of a clear outbreak, I would recommend treating with Aciclovir tablets (5x800 mg/7 days) to prevent recurrences.

All the best!

Warm regards, Dr. Höllering