Do you sometimes have painful blisters or tingling on the skin? If so, you may have signs of shingles in Lewes, Newark, DE, Manchester Township, and Brick, NJ. Help is available at Clear Solutions Dermatology Group, where Dr. Scott David, Dr. Mark Pomper, Dr. Robert Lee, and Jason Staback, PA-C, MS, will provide caring diagnosis and treatment.
What Is Shingles?
The varicella-zoster virus, the same one that causes chickenpox, causes this condition. It appears in various symptoms like pain, tingling, or burning sensations in a particular body part. For many people, the affected area may be sensitive to touch. It may appear as a rash that eventually becomes fluid-filled blisters. Eventually, these blisters crust over and may break open. This red rash may appear after you begin feeling initial pain or tingling. Some people may also have headaches, fever, and fatigue during these flare-ups.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The best way to get a proper diagnosis for shingles in Lewes, DE, is to see your local dermatologists, Dr. David, Dr. Pomper, and Dr. Lee. During a consultation, they will review your extensive medical history to see if you've had other skin conditions or pain and rule out other issues. If you currently have a flareup, your dermatologist will examine the rash and blisters to see if they are linked to shingles or a different skin condition. Sometimes, they may biopsy the blisters by withdrawing fluid to see if the varicella-zoster virus is present. They can prescribe topical or oral antibiotics. Creams for itching and anticonvulsants for nerve pain may also help.
Prevention
One of the first steps in preventing shingles is vaccination for some individuals. There is a Shingrix vaccine for people who are 50 years old or older. You may also get this vaccine if you are over 19 and have a weak immune system.
Another way to avoid it is by living a healthy lifestyle that promotes a healthy immune system. Poor immunity can make you susceptible to infections like shingles. So eat a healthy diet with balanced fruit and vegetables. Drink lots of water and avoid poor health habits like smoking and excessive drinking. Don't forget regular physical activity, such as walking, exercise, and sports, to boost your immunity function.
Dr. David, Dr. Pomper, Dr. Lee, and Jason Staback, PA-C, MS, are your caring providers at Clear Solutions Dermatology Group. If you suspect shingles in Lewes, Newark, DE, Manchester Township, and Brick, NJ, make an appointment at 877-425-7756 for proper diagnosis and treatment.
