12 Natural Ways to Soothe Shingles

Shingles can be an extremely painful condition, often causing burning, stinging, or shooting pain along with an itchy, blistering rash. For many people, the discomfort can make it difficult to sleep, focus, or even wear normal clothing without irritation. While shingles must run its course, there are several ways to ease symptoms and support your body during recovery. From soothing irritated skin to managing stress and protecting the rash, these coping strategies can help you feel more comfortable day by day.

The shingles rash and the other symptoms associated with shingles can be very uncomfortable and painful. Below are some coping strategies for dealing with shingles:

1. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothing lessens the likelihood of fabric touching or irritating the skin. Make sure the fabrics are made of natural fibers, and avoid tight waistbands or rough materials that rub against the rash. If possible, keep the area uncovered at home to reduce friction and allow the skin to breathe.
2. Soothe the Skin: Taking an oatmeal bath or applying calamine lotion can help soothe the skin.
3. Keep the Affected Area Clean: Make sure the shingles rash remains clean for the duration of the illness. You can do this by washing the area gently with fragrance-free bar soap, patting the area with a soft dry cloth, and putting a sterile bandage over the area afterwards. 
4. Avoid Scratching: Avoid scratching or picking at the shingles blisters to avoid causing an infection.
5. Use Cool Compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the rash may help reduce burning, itching, and irritation. This can also be a simple way to calm the skin without rubbing or scratching.
6. Address the Pain: Shingles pain can range from mild to intense. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like anti-inflammatory medications, may help, but some people may need prescription medication to manage nerve pain. If the pain is severe or interfering with sleep, it may be time to call your doctor.
7. Rest as Much as Possible: Your body is working hard to heal. Getting enough rest may help support recovery and make symptoms feel more manageable.
8. Distract From the Pain: Shingles pain can be difficult to deal with and distraction is key. Examples include talking to friends and family members, watching television, listening to music, reading, etc.
9. Avoid Spreading the Virus: Keep shingles blisters covered to prevent spreading the virus to those who haven’t had chickenpox or the vaccine. Until the rash crusts over, avoid close contact with pregnant people, newborns, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
10. Destress as Much as Possible: Because stress can make the pain that comes with shingles worse, it is important to avoid stress as much as possible.
11. Practice Proper Self-Care: Sticking to the basics of self-care, such as getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet, will do wonders for recovering from shingles.

Note: Adults age 50 and older may be eligible for the shingles vaccine, which can help reduce the risk of developing shingles and complications like long-term nerve pain. Even if you’ve had shingles before, getting vaccinated may help prevent future outbreaks. Talk with a healthcare provider to see if the shingles vaccine is recommended for you.

Shingles can be more dangerous for elderly adults because the risk of complications increases with age. While shingles often causes a painful rash, older adults are more likely to experience severe symptoms, long-lasting nerve pain, and a slower recovery. One of the most common complications is postherpetic neuralgia, which can cause pain that lasts for months or even years after the rash goes away.