Therapy of shingles on the abdomen
The treatment of shingles on the abdomen consists on the one hand of a symptomatic therapy against the pain and inflammatory reactions. On the other hand, the therapy usually includes virustatics. These are drugs that act against viruses.
Depending on the severity of the disease and individual circumstances, the drugs are used in tablet form or as an infusion. Active ingredients are Aciclovir, Bivudin, Famciclovir and Valaciclovir. In general, the earlier the therapy begins, the better.
In addition, the basic principle for virustatics is: as much as necessary and as little as possible. Symptomatic treatment includes drying out, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory ointments or tinctures and painkillers. For example, zinc ointments, aloe vera and tea tree oil are used.
In some cases, cortisone is also used as an ointment or in tablet form. Ibuprofen, diclofenac or paracetamol can be used to alleviate pain. Early and adequate pain treatment plays a major role in the treatment of shingles on the abdomen.
However, if the pain corresponds to a so-called neuropathic pain, other medications must be used. Often, so-called co-analgesics help. This means that these medications actually have a different indication, but also have an additional pain-relieving effect.
Certain antiepileptic drugs such as pregabalin or gabapentin come into question. But some antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, can also relieve pain. These drugs are used because of their additional pain-relieving properties and not because of their antidepressant or anti-epileptic effect.
Accordingly, the dose is lower than the dose for their main indication. In some cases, tramadol is used to relieve the pain of so-called neuropathic pain. It is an opioid pain reliever. All drugs of symptomatic therapy contribute to relief but do not fight the cause. To combat the viruses, certain virustatics mentioned above are used
Duration of shingles on the abdomen
From the appearance of the rash on the abdomen until it subsides, shingles on the abdomen usually takes between 2 – 4 weeks. Depending on the strength of the immune system and individual factors, the healing process may take longer.
