Can aspirin be taken for shingles pain?
Jun 01, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Shingles pain can usually be relieved with aspirin. Shingles is typically caused by the varicella-zoster virus, leading to skin lesions and is somewhat contagious. The fluid from shingles blisters contains the varicella-zoster virus and can spread through direct contact. Medications should be used under a doctor's guidance; self-medication should be avoided to prevent adverse effects on the body.
Shingles pain can usually be treated with aspirin. The details are as follows:
Shingles is typically caused by the varicella-zoster virus, leading to skin lesions and is somewhat contagious. The fluid from shingles blisters contains the varicella-zoster virus and can spread through direct contact. The virus enters sensory nerves and establishes a latent infection; when immune function is compromised, the dormant virus may reactivate and replicate again, often causing damage to nerve function, which may result in neuropathic pain. Aspirin inhibits cyclooxygenase in the body, reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins, bradykinin, and histamine. It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it relatively suitable for managing pain caused by shingles.
Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor; self-medication should be avoided to prevent adverse effects on the body. Avoid scratching with hands and maintain cleanliness of the affected area. Additionally, regular moderate physical exercise can help improve one's immunity.
