Seeking Medical Advice for Shingles
1. See a doctor for a diagnosis if you suspect you have shingles.
The most notable symptom of shingles is a rash that appears in a stripe on one side of the body or face. Shingles causes some distinct symptoms before the rash is visible, such as shooting, tingling, or itching on one side of the body or face. Then, a rash will emerge about 1 to 14 days after this. Some people also experience additional symptoms, such as:
- Fever
- Headache
- Chills
- Upset stomach
2. Start an antiviral medication within 3 days of your symptoms beginning.
Starting on an antiviral medication within 3 days of noticing symptoms is ideal since this can help to reduce the severity and length of shingles. As soon as you notice symptoms, see a doctor for a diagnosis and get a prescription for an antiviral medication. Some of the medications available for reducing the severity of shingles include:
- Acyclovir
- Valcyclovir
- Famcyclovir
3. Ask your doctor about taking CBD oil to treat pain and discomfort.
Although the research on CBD oil for shingles is limited, some studies indicate that CBD oil may be useful for treating neuropathic pain, which is the type of pain that shingles causes. However, the best way to decide if taking CBD oil is right for you is to discuss it with your doctor.
- Try saying something like, “I’m considering taking CBD oil to manage my pain while I have shingles. Is this a safe option for me?”
- Be aware that your doctor may suggest alternatives to CBD oil, which may provide more reliable relief for shingles pain and discomfort. If you still want to try CBD oil, ask if you can try it for a few days or in addition to another medication.
4. Avoid taking CBD oil if you’re taking medications that interact with it.
CBD oil interacts with some medications, so it’s important to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medications you’re taking. Even if you take an over-the-counter medication or supplement, tell your doctor about it. If you’re taking a medication that’s known to react with CBD oil, it’s best not to take CBD oil. Some of the medications that may interact with CBD oil include:
- Omeprazole
- Warfarin
- Risperidone
- Diclofenac
- Ketoconazole
Safety Precaution: Although side effects of CBD oil are rare, it’s important to watch for them while you’re taking CBD oil. Also, keep in mind that people who take other medications are at a higher risk of side effects from CBD oil. Stop taking CBD oil and contact your doctor if you develop nausea, changes in weight or appetite, tiredness, diarrhea, dry mouth, or low blood pressure.
Choosing a Delivery Method and Dose
1. Rub CBD oil on affected skin to soothe specific areas of your body.
CBD oil is available in creams, lotions, and ointments that you can apply to your skin. This may be the best option for pain and itching due to shingles. With topical application, you can target specific areas of your body, such as where you’re experiencing the most pain and discomfort. However, make sure to check with your doctor to see if it’s okay to apply CBD oil to your shingles rash.
- Avoid applying CBD oil lotions, ointments, or creams to any open sores on your body. Only use it on skin that is intact.
- Topical CBD oil works quickly, so you may feel the effects within about 5 minutes and the effects may last for 6 hours or longer. Reapply the CBD oil when the effects wear off or as recommended by the manufacturer.
2. Try inhaling CBD oil with a vape pen if you need quick relief.
Inhaled CBD oil is the quickest way to get it into your system, so it’s a good option if you need fast pain relief. Use a vape pen or other vaporizing device to inhale the CBD oil. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how to use the device. The pain relieving effects of the CBD oil should take effect almost immediately.
- Although inhaled CBD oil is fast-acting, it wears off quickly. Repeat the dosage every 2 to 3 hours to keep CBD oil in your system.
