Suggest Treatment For Shingles Like Bumps On The Right Side Of The Neck

Posted on Tue, 31 Jan 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 Answered on

Thu, 23 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I do believe I have shingles I had a break out Friday on the back of head more on the right hand side my ear my neck- both the front and right side could I get some advise

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (49 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Oral antiviral need to start immediately

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us

I am dr.kakkar (dermatologist). I have gone through your query and i have noted your concern. I request you to kindly upload an image in "Reports Section" so that i am able to confirm the diagnosis.
Shingles presents with neuralgic pain and a rash that blisters. The rash in shingles is segmental and unilateral with a mid line cut off. It is caused by reactivation of varicella zoster virus.
For shingles i would suggest an oral antiviral e.g tablet valacyclovir (valtrex) 1gm, 3x daily for a week. It is importsnt to start valtrex within first 48-72 hours as this would help reduce the severity and duration of neuralgic pain.
You may also take an oral painkiller e.g tab.ibuprofen 4b0mg, twice or thrice daily for a week.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar