Herpes zoster at 33 weeks of pregnancy: Is hospitalization required?
Disease description:
I'm 33 weeks pregnant. Recently, I developed shingles on my body, which is both painful and itchy, causing poor sleep at night. Do I need hospital treatment for this condition?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
In general, whether hospitalization is required for shingles starting at 33 weeks of pregnancy mainly depends on the severity of the patient's condition. If the condition is mild, hospitalization is usually not necessary. However, if the condition is severe, hospitalization may be required.
If a pregnant woman's shingles symptoms are mild, presenting only as localized mild pain without other significant discomfort, hospitalization may not be necessary. In such cases, it is recommended that the pregnant woman rest in bed more often and avoid scratching the affected area to reduce the risk of bacterial infection. Additionally, under a doctor's guidance, the pregnant woman can use certain topical antiviral medications to alleviate symptoms.
However, if a pregnant woman's shingles symptoms are severe, accompanied by intense pain, or affect sensitive areas such as the face or eyes, hospitalization may be necessary. During hospitalization, doctors can more comprehensively monitor the pregnant woman's condition and formulate a more detailed and targeted treatment plan according to the specific circumstances.
During treatment, it is recommended that the pregnant woman follow a bland diet and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods to prevent exacerbation of the condition.
