You’re probably asking yourself how long shingles last. Growth of warts usually lasts a few months, as the skin develops a coating of dead cells that protect the skin from infection. Removing that layer of dead skin allows the virus to survive longer in your system.
Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It’s usually contracted through close contact with an infected person. The virus can lie dormant in your nervous system for weeks, months or even years. After healing from a fever or illness, the virus can be reactivated and cause shingles outbreaks. In addition to being contagious, herpes zoster is the leading cause of permanent nerve damage and blindness in children and young adults.
The most common drugs used in treating shingles are valacyclovir (Zovirax, Famvir), famciclovir (Famvir), or valacyclovir (Valtrex). If these medications aren’t effective, a prescription antiviral medication called voriconazole (Diflucan) may be prescribed. Common side effects of voriconazole include itching, nausea, and diarrhea. Although these side effects are generally mild, they may be bothersome and may interfere with other shingles treatments you’re using. One can also get advice for the best topical cream for shingles, if the side effects of prescriptive drugs are a worry. The cream can quickly reduce the discomfort experienced with shingles.
Shingles outbreaks often occur when the patient is taking one of the above mentioned common drugs. Because of this, shingles sufferers are often given a prescription for either a fixed dosing schedule or a pill with a higher daily dose. If your insurance covers it, you may also be given a prescription for a prescription strength Zovirax. These medications, though, are not effective against shingles, since they are not able to penetrate the skin.
Since valacyclovir and voriconazole cannot penetrate the skin, these commonly prescribed medications are only effective at treating the symptoms of herpes simplex virus shingles. Unfortunately, they do nothing to prevent future outbreaks. Once your infection has re-formed, you will need to return to the pharmacy to pick up another valacyclovir or voriconazole tablet. Repeat this cycle over again, or until relief is felt.
Another commonly prescribed anti-depressant is xanax. There are many variations in dosage, as well as a possible risk for developing liver toxicity when taking too much xanax. It is often prescribed for symptoms of anxiety, but the dosage must be carefully monitored by a physician. For example, a dosage of xanax can be adjusted up or down if the patient becomes anxious without a worsening of the symptoms. While there are no known side effects associated with xanax, it is important to remember that the dosage must be changed when the patient becomes extremely ill or develops other conditions like a panic attack.
If you take a low dosage of xanax, the effects are often less severe than those of a higher dosage. If you suffer from anxiety and/or depression, you may want to try a combination of valacyclovir and xanax to see if you can find relief without developing problems with heart or liver disease. Some people have even used lorazepam and verapamil for anxiety-related problems, but these were not meant for the treatment of panic disorder. Many physicians will give a patient Xanax for anxiety and will then treat them with valacyclovir, although this is becoming more rare. It is important to discuss any and all treatment options with your doctor.
When it comes to treating anxiety and panic disorders, the choices are many, but patients need to be sure they understand the medications they are given and the possible side effects associated with them. Treatments for anxiety range from lifestyle changes to therapy, but sometimes the most effective treatment lies in finding a good dosage of xanax and sticking with it. If you find the right dosage and the proper amount of therapy to treat your anxiety, you will find yourself feeling better in no time.