What causes shingles in a teenager?
What causes shingles in a teenager?
Shingles is caused by the Varicella zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles can happen in children who’ve previously had chickenpox. After an episode of chickenpox, the Varicella zoster virus ‘sleeps’ in the nerve cells.
How long does teenage shingles last?
How long shingles lasts. It can take up to 4 weeks for the rash to heal. Your skin can be painful for weeks after the rash has gone, but it usually gets better over time.
Can a 14 year old have shingles?
Many cases of shingles have mild symptoms, but more severe cases can be very painful. Luckily, kids and teens almost always have mild cases; the severe cases usually only happen in older people.
When to start taking antiviral medicine for shingles?
Antiviral medicine helps decrease symptoms and healing time. They may also decrease your risk of developing nerve pain. You will need to start taking them within 3 days of the start of symptoms to prevent nerve pain. Prescription pain medicine may be given.
What kind of Medicine DO YOU take for shingles?
Acetaminophen can help ease aches and pains. Ibuprofen can also help ease aches and pains. To lower your chance of having an upset stomach, take ibuprofen with food. Diphenhydramine can help ease itching from the rash. Drowsiness—Do not take this before driving or using heavy machines.
What should I do if my child has shingles?
Shingles treatment. Children with shingles usually just need treatment to relieve symptoms like pain and itch. Paracetamol might help relieve mild pain. Avoid applying creams or lotions to the rash. If your child has scratched the rash and broken the skin, make sure to wash the area well.
How to know if you have shingles after taking medicine?
You have a cough, chills, or a fever. You have abdominal pain or nausea, or you are vomiting. Your rash becomes more itchy or painful. Your rash spreads to other parts of your body. Your pain worsens and does not go away even after you take medicine.