Can You Use Biofreeze On Shingles

What Do I Need To Tell My Doctor Before I Take Desitin Rapid Relief

How to treat shingles

If you are allergic to Desitin Rapid Relief any part of Desitin Rapid Relief or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
If you have a deep wound or a puncture wound.

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with Desitin Rapid Relief .

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Desitin Rapid Relief with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy describes a condition where you’ve sustained damage to the outer nerves in your legs and feet. It can cause weakness, pain or numbness in the feet and/or hands. Some people also experience digestion, urination and circulation problems with neuropathy.

Why is this condition so damaging? Your body’s peripheral nervous system is in charge of sending out sensory information to your central nervous system and body. When it sustains damage, those messages go wonky. And that’s when you experience loss of sensation, or unwanted, painful feelings.

Best Treatments For Lasting Shingles Pain

A new study offers insights into what helps — and what does not help — relieve long-lasting shingles pain.

Doctors call it postherpetic neuralgia or PHN. It’s caused by nerve damage left behind by a case of shingles. Shingles itself comes from reactivation of a chickenpox virus, varicella zoster. The virus travels down nerve fibers to cause a painful skin rash.

When the rash goes away, the pain usually goes with it. But for 12 percent to 15 percent of people the pain remains. If your shingles pain lasts eight to 12 weeks after the rash goes away, you’re part of an “unfortunate minority,” says pain researcher Andrew S.C. Rice, MD, of Imperial College, London.

“Among people with PHN, some have their pain resolve in the first year to 18 months after the shingles rash goes away,” Rice tells WebMD. “But if they have pain longer than that, it is not going to go away on its own. In either case, a person must deal with the pain.”

Treating the Pain of PHN

Exactly how best to deal with the pain is a difficult question. Rice led a research team that looked at 35 clinical trials of various treatments. The findings appear in the July issue of the free-access online journal PloS Medicine.

What helps? Rice’s team found good evidence supporting:

— Tricyclic antidepressants. These are the older kinds of antidepressant. Those shown effective for postherpetic neuralgia include nortriptyline , desipramine , and amitriptyline .

— Neurontin

Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Cream To Put On Shingles

Is There A Vaccine

In 2006, the FDA approved ZostavaxTM vaccine for the prevention of shingles in adults over the age of 60. Stopping shingles before it starts is the best way to guard against the later pain of PHN. The vaccine works well: There are 50-64% fewer cases of shingles in Zostavax-vaccinated people. And if a vaccinated person develops shingles anyway, the pain doesnt last as long.

Once again, though, age makes a difference. The vaccine is recommended for every person over the age of 60 who has had the chickenpox, unless there are specific medical reasons against using it. But people who get the vaccine after the age of 70 arent protected as well as those who get the shot when theyre younger.

Who Shouldnt Get The Shingles Vaccine

Donât get the Shingrix vaccine if:

Youâre allergic to any of the ingredients.
Youâre pregnant or nursing.
You have tested negative for immunity to the chickenpox virus. Ask your doctor about the chickenpox vaccine instead.
You have shingles now.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Shingles. Seek Early Treatment, âShingles: Hope Through Research.â

Mayo Clinic Health Letter, June 2002.

The New England Journal of Medicine: âA Vaccine to Prevent Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia in Older Adults.â

Drug Safety: âTolerability of Treatments for Postherpetic Neuralgia.â

WebMD Health News: Shingles Vaccine to Be Routine at 60.

FDA: FDA Licenses New Vaccine to Reduce Older Americans Risk of Shingles.

Vaccines.Gov: âShingles .â

CDC: âWhat Everyone Should Know About Shingles Vaccine.â

Mayo Clinic: âAcupuncture, âFibromyalgia,â âShingles.â

National Health Service : âShingles.â

PubMed: âIn vitro antiviral activity of honey against varicella zoster virus : A translational medicine study for potential remedy for shingles,â âMedical use of dimethyl sulfoxide ,â âTENS an alternative to antiviral drugs for acute herpes zoster treatment and postherpetic neuralgia prevention,â âWet cupping therapy for treatment of herpes zoster: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.â

Columbia Neurosurgeons: âPostherpetic Neuralgia.â

National Eczema Association: âPhototherapy.â

Read Also: Can You Get Shingles On Your Chest

Shingles Pain 2 Years On Help :

gemma07

Hi , I had the shingles on my left rub cage around 2 years ago. Unfortunately I did not have a rash and therefore was mis diagnosed for months. As a result of not being treated for the shingles quick enough I am now left with neuralgia on my rib cage. I am currently on Lyrica and amitriptyline at night and this is taking the pain away slightly. However, I get really bad flare ups and I am constantly at the doctor getting my tablets increased. I also have lidocaine patches but because of where on the body it is they do not stick. This is completely ruining my life as I am still young. Does anyoneb have any suggestions that I could try ?

1 like, 10 replies

Posted 7 years ago

I’m sorry for your lingering pain. I wonder if a product like BIOFREEZE, a cold-gel I use for neck and back pain would help at all with nerve pain. Might be worth a try. Its manufactured in the US and distributed in a 110 ml tube. It smells very medicinal but produces a wonderful heated, numbing feeling where applied. Hope you get some relief soon. xo
Posted 7 years ago

I’m sorry to hear of your pain and discomfort. My neice also had shingles when young. My husband, at 91, is also dealing with fatigue that came with his bout. Shingles is a real bummer! I suggest that you read ALL threads dealing with Shingles on this website. You’ll get an amazing education from people who are looking for answers like you. My best to you!

Best On A Budget: Tiger Balm Extra Strength Pain Relieving Ointment

This classic ointment uses a combo of camphor and menthol to create a cooling sensation that temporarily blocks out feelings of discomfort, per Harvard Health Publishing.

Because the ingredients merely mask pain, the balm isn’t likely to be as effective as options that also contain anti-inflammatory agents like lidocaine or diclofenac. But it’ll get the job done if you’re looking for fast, inexpensive, temporary relief.

âBuy it: âWalgreens.com âPrice: â$4.79

Recommended Reading: What To Put On Shingles Blisters

How Is It Diagnosed

Your doctor can find out if you have chronic pain by asking about your past illnesses and your overall health. Your doctor will also do a physical exam and look for areas that are tender, weak, or numb.

Your doctor may ask you about your pain including:

When did your pain start?
How long does your pain last?
What makes your pain better or worse?

Your doctor may also want to know if your pain disrupts your daily activities, sleep, or mood.

You also may be asked to keep a pain diary.

You may have tests to find out if a health problem is causing the pain. Your doctor may check for problems with your nervous system and may order imaging tests.

Can Aspercreme With Lidocaine Be Used On Shingles

Shingles: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment with Dr. Mark Shalauta | San Diego Health

Question posted by mpp on 2 Feb 2017

Yes but it it effective for the stage you are in now?Is this your first attack?Are you still in the initial stage with blisters present.If this is first attack and blisters are crusted over then it may work with the addition of NSAIDS.Aspercreme is for the treatment of itching and pain for the skin only.Unfortunately, one of the complications of shingles is nerve involvement- PHN This is more than a condition of the skin but the nervous system. It occurs more often in the elderly.It is also better to do aggressive treatment initially to prevent complications.For nerve pain :ANTIDEPRESSANT – They have a good affect on nerve pain. The antidepressant effect is good if the chronic pain is causing an emotional effect on you. ANTI-SEIZURE – It’s been found that seizure medication has an “off-label” treatment of nerve pain. It’s now become the drug of choice for PHN, Fibromyalgia, RSD, etc.TOPICAL – The Aspercreme with Lidocaine, Capzasin, etc.OPIOIDS- This is for last resort care when all else fails.

If anyone else has suggestions, please do.Best wishes

Also Check: How Old Should You Be To Get A Shingles Shot

Best For Back Pain: Amazon Basic Care Arthricream

“Topical formulations are made with a base and active ingredient, which can be optimized for a particular site on the body,” Dr. Mehta says.

This one uses trolamine salicylate, a pain reliever related to aspirin that can help numb minor aches and soreness, including back soreness, according to Harvard Health Publishing. The addition of aloe leaf gel makes for an extra-soothing feel.

âBuy it: â âPrice: â$4

What Are Some Things I Need To Know Or Do While I Take Desitin Rapid Relief

Tell all of your health care providers that you take Desitin Rapid Relief . This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
This medicine may cause harm if swallowed. If Desitin Rapid Relief is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.

Can I Use Biofreeze On My Children

Biofreeze gel can be used on adults and children two years old and older. Biofreeze spray, roll-on, patch, foam, and cream forms can be used on adults and children twelve years old and older. Consult a physician for children younger than these ages. If Biofreeze is accidentally ingested by a child seek medical help immediately.

What Kind Of Reviews Are Out There For Biofreeze

Most customers who used the product were satisfied with the Biofreeze benefits. It is effectively reduced their joint and muscle pain without the worry of experiencing serious side effects.

People also liked that Biofreeze comes in various preparations wherein all are very handy especially the Biofreeze singles thus they can experience pain relief anywhere and anytime they want. The consumers also noted the immediate and long-lasting pain relief that is provided as compared to other topical analgesics.

Read Also: Does Kroger Give Shingles Vaccine

What Are Some Other Side Effects Of Biofreeze Colorless Gel

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

Skin irritation.
Burning or stinging feeling. Most of the time, this will go away after a few days.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

How Should I Use Biofreeze

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use on open wounds, broken skin, or irritated skin. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.

For your first use, apply only to a small skin area to test how your skin reacts to the medicine.

Do not cover treated skin with a tight bandage or use a heating pad.

Menthol can cause a cold or burning sensation, which is usually mild and should lessen over time with continued use. If this sensation causes significant discomfort, wash the skin with soap and water.

Store at room temperature. Keep the medicine tightly closed when not in use.

When To Call A Doctor

911 or other emergency services now if:

You or someone you know is thinking seriously about or has attempted suicide. Serious signs include these thoughts:
You have decided on how to kill yourself, such as with a weapon or medicines.
You have set a time and place to do it.
You think there is no other way to solve the problem or end the pain.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Call 1-800-273-TALK .
Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Your pain has lasted more than 3 months without a clear reason.
You are feeling sad or are losing interest in the activities or hobbies that you have enjoyed in the past. This may be a sign of depression, which is common with chronic pain.
You are thinking about hurting yourself or others.
You can’t sleep because of the pain.
You had an illness or injury that healed, but you still have pain.
Your pain is severe or it interferes with your life. If you delay treatment, the pain may get worse.

Can You Use Biofreeze For Neuropathy

Shingles: What You Should Know | Johns Hopkins Medicine

People who suffer from peripheral neuropathy in Houston deal with constant discomfort. It may be tingling, numbness or burning pain. But it’s going to be uncomfortable, so they’re on a constant lookout to help to moderate their symptoms.

Even worse? People think there’s nothing you can do to relieve neuropathy pain. And that’s just not true.

Luckily, there are an overwhelming amount of remedies. And one such remedy is Biofreeze, a topical analgesic, that provides temporary relief from peripheral neuropathy pain. Ready to learn more? First, let’s briefly review what causes neuropathy and how it affects your body.

Also Check: When Can You Get Shingles Shot

What Are Some Things I Need To Know Or Do While I Take Biofreeze Colorless Gel

Tell all of your health care providers that you take Biofreeze Colorless Gel . This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
This medicine may cause harm if swallowed. If Biofreeze Colorless Gel is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away.
Avoid using a heating pad or other heating devices on the treated area.
This medicine may catch on fire. Do not use near an open flame or while smoking.
Different brands of Biofreeze Colorless Gel may be for use in different ages of children. Talk with the doctor before giving Biofreeze Colorless Gel to a child.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using Biofreeze Colorless Gel while you are pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.

What Are Boils And Carbuncles

Boils and carbuncles are skin infections usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria . These staph infections form pockets in the skin that are filled with pus, a fluid that includes bacteria, dead skin cells and infection-fighting white blood cells. Whether the pocket of pus is called a boil or a carbuncle depends on its location and size:

A boil, also called a furuncle, begins as a painful infection of a single hair follicle. Boils can grow to be larger than a golf ball, and they commonly occur on the buttocks, face, neck, armpits and groin.
A carbuncle is a deeper skin infection that involves a group of infected hair follicles in one skin location. Carbuncles often are found on the back of the neck, shoulders, hips and thighs, and they are especially common in middle-aged or elderly men. People with diabetes are more likely to develop carbuncles.

When To Contact Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if you have any questions about your medication, any side effects that are troublesome, or if you feel that the medication is not working after the allotted time period.Call your doctor any time you have questions about using your medicine.

References:

The American Academy of Dermatologywebsite. Available at:. Accessed February 21, 2006.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokewebsite. Available at:. Accessed February 21, 2006.

Stankus SJ, Dlugopolski M, Packer D. Management of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia.Am Fam Physician. 2000 61.Available at:

Tyring SK. Management of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2007 Dec 57:S136-42. Review.

What Increases Your Risk

Risk factors are things that increase your chances of getting sick or having a problem. Risk factors for chronic pain include:

Aging. Older adults are more likely to have certain health problems that can lead to chronic pain, such as arthritis, diabetes, and shingles.
Lifestyle choices. These may include smoking, drinking alcohol, or using other drugs.
Social factors. These may include loneliness and feeling disconnected from others.
Long-term use of opioids.
Certain health problems. These include:
Existing health conditions, such as fibromyalgia, shingles, arthritis, depression or anxiety disorders, or phantom limb pain.
Past health problems, such as joint injuries or past surgeries.

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