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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 18:38:54
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » rskontos, posted by Phillipa on May 1, 2008, at 12:43:59
No No don't be sorry. It is scary. So much is these days. But then who knows what really is behind the cause and root of all that is croping up these days. I mean my stuff just started and my dermo is one of the best in my area. He has been head scratching during this. And he still wasn't sure the meds would work. After I had been on it for about 4 days he had his pa call to check. And I said I guess it is working at least on the itching it had stopped. So they thin k it is working. At least for me, the itching stopping was a HUGE relief. You know you never realize how bad a constant itch can be and how it can increase over days and drive you crazy. I am not looking to forward to it ever coming back!!!
rsk
Posted by Phillipa on May 1, 2008, at 19:54:42
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » Phillipa, posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 18:38:54
Wouldn't a fungal infection be caused by a dark damp place? Philippa
Posted by Poet on May 2, 2008, at 16:23:34
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » Poet, posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 11:23:58
I am going to ask if it might be a fungus or somekind of bacteria infection. I've had hives before, other people I know have had them and for us they have never become purple itchy scabs. My father is a retired pharmacist and he saw my face today and said "I've seen that before and it's not hives."
So Monday I give it another shot and hopefully this time they will get it right. I'm going to brave it to water aerobics tomorrow and warn the class that I can't be splashed in the face. I don't want to know how chlorine will burn my face. Maybe I should skip the third class in a row, but it's my only exercise. I hate this.
More Monday.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 2, 2008, at 20:04:57
In reply to Doc appointment Monday morning, posted by Poet on May 2, 2008, at 16:23:34
Poet sorry in my opinion this has gone on too long. You mention water aerobics and my ex got a staph infection in a hot tub at a YMCA. If I were you I wouldn't wait. What did your Dad say to do? Love Phillipa
Posted by Poet on May 3, 2008, at 10:31:18
In reply to Re: Doc appointment Monday morning » Poet, posted by Phillipa on May 2, 2008, at 20:04:57
Hi Phillipa,
I did do water aerobics and managed not to get my face wet, but I am dead tired. My father isn't at all sure what this is other than he knows it isn't hives. I'm thinking fungus, I did do some major gardening two weeks ago and maybe something in the soil/dead leaves I cleared out had some kind of fungus that can affect humans. I'm off the steriods today so if they were making it worse I should be less scabby I hope.
I'll definitely post what the doc says on Monday.
This just stinks.Poet
Posted by Poet on May 5, 2008, at 11:22:18
In reply to Re: Doc appointment Monday morning » Phillipa, posted by Poet on May 3, 2008, at 10:31:18
I feel vindicated that I was right that it isn't hives. I'm now on Valtrex and Prednisone. Have an appointment with an eye doctor tomorrow because my right eye is flaming red and infected. At least a virus explains why I have no energy and just want to sleep.
I still look hideous and of course have a job interview Wed. afternoon. Maybe I can wear makeup.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 12:39:53
In reply to New DX: herpes zoster/shingles, posted by Poet on May 5, 2008, at 11:22:18
Poet you poor dear hope the eyes is okay. But seriously a question is it contagious in the sense that say pink eye is ? If so may have to cancel but if like a cold sore would think okay but I sure don't know the doc will though so glad you finally got a diagnosis and proper meds. Love Phillipa
Posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 12:46:43
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Poet, posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 12:39:53
Poet you will be fine and be able to keep the job interview a quick search yielded this. Yup on the right meds looks like just some eye drops. Keep us posted. Learned something again. Phillipa
Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Eye Infections
What is Herpes Zoster?
Herpes zoster is the medical name for shingles. It is caused by reactivation in the adult years of the chicken pox virus that occurred during childhood (the varicalla-zoster virus). The virus can be reactivated when the body's immunity to the virus breaks down. This may happen due to normal aging, or the body's immune system may become weakened due to stress from illness, physical or emotional stress, fatigue, poor nutrition, certain medications, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other factors.
Once reactivated, the virus travels along nerve fibers, usually settling in fairly isolated areas of skin on one side of the body. The infected area of the body usually has severe pain, itching, redness, numbness, and the development of a rash. The rash on the skin develops into small, fluid-filled blisters called vesicles. Within a few days of their appearance on the skin, the vesicles break open and form scabs. In severe cases, the rash can leave permanent scars, long standing pain, numbness, and skin discoloration.
How Does Herpes Zoster Affect The Eyes?
The eyes are sometimes affected by herpes zoster. This is due to the fact that the eyes are connected to nerves that may be infected with the herpes zoster virus.
The usual shingles rash can spread from an involved area of the forehead or cheek to the upper or lower eyelids. Shingles may cause redness of the conjunctiva (the mucous membrane covering the white of the eye). It can also cause small scratches or scarring of the cornea. The scratches on the cornea may increase the risk of bacterial infection in the eye. Shingles may also cause inflammation inside the eye, known as iritis or uveitis. It can also affect the optic nerve or the retina.
Herpes zoster infections of the eye can lead to redness, swelling, pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. Severe or repeated episodes of herpes zoster infection are associated with other eye conditions, including glaucoma, scarring inside the eye, and cataract formation.
Are Herpes Zoster Infections Contagious?
Transmission of virus from patients with herpes zoster to produce chickenpox has occurred, but occurs less frequently than transmission of virus from patients with chickenpox. Localized herpes zoster requires secretion precautions to guard against spreading of infection by direct contact with secretions from vesicles and from secretion-contaminated articles.
How Are Herpes Zoster Eye Infections Treated?
Treatment of the symptoms of shingles through compresses and pain relievers is usually recommended by doctors. Lubricating eyedrops or antibiotic eye drops may aso be prescribed.
The use of antiviral medications may be recommended by your doctor. The medication most commonly prescribed is acyclovir. Occasionally, steroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
By its very nature, herpes zoster infections are prone to return from time to time, especially when the immune system is weakened. Early diagnosis and treatment is important to minimize the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications that may compromise vision.
Posted by Dinah on May 5, 2008, at 16:29:22
In reply to New DX: herpes zoster/shingles, posted by Poet on May 5, 2008, at 11:22:18
:( My dad had shingles and I know how much pain they caused him. I'm glad you got the proper diagnosis and treatment so that you can feel better soon.
Posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 17:11:49
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Poet, posted by Dinah on May 5, 2008, at 16:29:22
Should work really fast now that the mystery is solved. Bet it's better in 24 hours. Love Phillipa
Posted by llurpsienoodle on May 6, 2008, at 23:46:14
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Dinah, posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 17:11:49
I've gotten shingles twice in my little life. It's very unpleasant for me. Shingles near your eye can be associated with more complications, so make sure that you follow dr.'s orders. Keep us posted?
-Ll
Posted by Poet on May 7, 2008, at 13:35:39
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Phillipa, posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 12:46:43
Hi Phillipa,
Thank you for the shingles info. The eye doctor found some minor irritation on my right eye cornea, but said it's okay to wear my contacts in a few days. I have eye drops to put in four times a day and I see him again on the 16th.
I honestly felt like a leper at his office. The waiting area was filled with senior citizens and they were worried I was contageous so they stuck me in an exam room for 45 minutes. Honstly, it's not like I was going up to people and saying wanna touch my scabs?
I hope this clears up quickly, but I know it can take weeks.
Poet
Posted by Poet on May 7, 2008, at 13:39:32
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Poet, posted by Dinah on May 5, 2008, at 16:29:22
Hi Dinah,
My forehead and right side of my nose near my eye feels like constant pressure: like the veins are throbbing. It's the only way I can describe it. I scratched the scabs off last night, which may not be good, but I can cover the sores with makeup for my interview.
I saw Dr. Clueless this week and she first thought I fell and hit my head, then realized what it was and said it must be stress induced. Eye doctor said the same thing. What's odd is I don't feel anymore stressed than usual.
I go back to the nurse practitioner on Monday and the eye doctor again on the 16th.
Poet
Posted by Poet on May 7, 2008, at 13:43:39
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Phillipa, posted by llurpsienoodle on May 6, 2008, at 23:46:14
Hi Ll,
The eye doctor prescribed eye drops to put in four times a day. I see him again on the 16th. It's okay to wear my contacts again so I'm lucky that the cornea damage isn't too bad. Though my eye is flaming red.
Sorry you've had shingles, they truly are a pain.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 7, 2008, at 19:10:27
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » llurpsienoodle, posted by Poet on May 7, 2008, at 13:43:39
Poet so glad the mystery is solved and will have a good outcome. I can imagine the seniors running for cover. Must have been some humor in that but insulting to you also. Just glad you will be well once again. Stress seems to trigger most illnesses that would not show up take eczema, my thyroid wacking out. Bet your stressor is the job situation. And good luck on Wednesday. Love Phillipa
Posted by Poet on May 10, 2008, at 14:38:39
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Poet, posted by Phillipa on May 7, 2008, at 19:10:27
It's like I itch under my skin. I scratch, but can't reach it. Argh. My scabs/shingles/pox look better, but man the itching. Not to mention the throbbing vein running past my nose up into my scalp. This sucks.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 10, 2008, at 20:12:29
In reply to Iching and numbness, posted by Poet on May 10, 2008, at 14:38:39
Maybe the itching means it is healing don't know did you google signs of healing or any meds to help. But since it involves the nerves that is deeper than the skin. Sorry so painful and itching is horrible. Love Phillipa
Posted by Dinah on May 10, 2008, at 20:18:16
In reply to Iching and numbness, posted by Poet on May 10, 2008, at 14:38:39
I think they gave my Dad something for it. Maybe Neurontin? Although he had so much going on at once, I might be wrong about that. He described those symptoms too. It really does suck. I hope it feels better soon.
Posted by Poet on May 11, 2008, at 12:27:06
In reply to Re: Iching and numbness » Poet, posted by Phillipa on May 10, 2008, at 20:12:29
Hi Phillipa,
I googled shingles and itching and didn't get anything about healing. Though one website said to put distilled white vinegar on a cotton ball and rub it in where it itches. I'm giving that a shot. If the itching is still bad tomorrow I'm going to call the doctor and see if they can prescribe something before I go in on Wed.
Poet
Posted by Poet on May 11, 2008, at 12:29:25
In reply to Re: Iching and numbness » Poet, posted by Dinah on May 10, 2008, at 20:18:16
Hi Dinah,
If I still hurt and itch Monday, I'm calling the doctor to see if they can prescribe something before I go in on Wed. I was supposed to see the nurse practioner Monday morning, but am hopefully starting a new job and despite pain and itching money is a priority. Talk about bad timing.
I'm sorry your dad suffered through this, I don't wish it on anybody.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 11, 2008, at 12:38:53
In reply to Re: Iching and numbness » Phillipa, posted by Poet on May 11, 2008, at 12:27:06
Poet I'm sorry forgot to try. Do they still use atarax or benydryl sp? Love Phillipa so sorry must be horrible.
Posted by Phillipa on May 11, 2008, at 12:43:07
In reply to Re: Iching and numbness » Phillipa, posted by Poet on May 11, 2008, at 12:27:06
Poet look what I found!!!! Maybe just a pain med?
Shingles
How is it treated?
By recognizing and controlling the factors that can contribute to a shingles attack - for example, high stress levels or excessive consumption of alcohol - individuals may be able to prevent a recurrence of shingles. And although there is no cure, treatment for shingles can help reduce pain and discomfort and speed healing of the blisters and rash.Antiviral medications such as acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), and famciclovir (Famvir) offer substantial relief and significantly reduce the duration of symptoms for most affected individuals. Starting an antiviral medication within 72 hours of the first sign of a shingles attack is generally recommended to help speed healing and possibly reduce the risk of developing complications such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Pain medications can also offer relief. For mild to moderate pain, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and ketoprofen (Orudis KT) can be effective. For moderate to severe pain, more powerful pain killers may be needed, such as prescription NSAIDs or narcotic analgesics. Corticosteroids (for example, prednisone, methylprednisolone, cortisone, and hydrocortisone) are also sometimes prescribed to reduce the pain, discomfort, inflammation, redness, and itching associated with the rash and blisters.
For postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), medications for nerve pain may be needed. These include anti-seizure drugs (Neurontin, Lyrica) antidepressants (Cymbalta), a lidocaine patch 5 % (Lidoderm), or capsaicin cream (Dolorac, Trixaicin, Zostrix, Zostrix-HP).
For ophthalmic herpes zoster, antivirals are used to fight the varicella zoster virus and prevent it from spreading to a larger area of the face and the eye. Other treatments include pain medicines, corticosteroids, and cool compresses. If you think you might have ophthalmic shingles, it is extremely important that you consult your primary doctor or an ophthalmologist immediately for treatment and advice to prevent permanent eye damage.
For more information on the drugs used to treat shingles and its complications, click on the links below.
Drug classes used to treat Shingles
Alkaloid Derivatives
Anti-virals
Anticonvulsants
Corticosteroids
Narcotic Analgesics
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Posted by Poet on May 12, 2008, at 13:06:17
In reply to Re: Iching and numbness, posted by Phillipa on May 11, 2008, at 12:43:07
Hi Phillipa,
Thanks again for more info. You'd think the doctor would have printouts to give to patients that explains it.
They gave me benedryl when they thought it was hives. I took one yesterday and between it and the vinegar the itching was better. I've been taking ibprofen, too which seems to help the pain a bit.
I am less itchy and the pain is always there, but maybe I can getting used to it. I took the last of the prednisone today, and am on valtrax through Wednesday. I see the doc Wednesday so I'll find out then if I need to keep on anything. I will also ask about something for the itching and pain, too.
I wish I had been diognosed within 72 hours, it was over week later that they determined it was shingles, so my valtrax treatment started late. I was on prednisone from the start.Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 12, 2008, at 13:21:28
In reply to Re: Iching and numbness » Phillipa, posted by Poet on May 12, 2008, at 13:06:17
Don't shingles usually last about 2-4 weeks? Trying to remember the one patient ever I had that had it on his side and back. Love Phillipa
Posted by Poet on May 12, 2008, at 16:01:45
In reply to Re: Iching and numbness » Poet, posted by Phillipa on May 12, 2008, at 13:21:28
Hi Phillipa,
Two to four weeks is what I am hoping for. I know they can go eight weeks, but hopefully the meds are killling off the virus. I know the virus that effected my eye is expected to be two weeks. So hopefully I am off the drops after this Friday.
Poet
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