posted June 17, 2004 01:51 PM         

I have come down with a case of shingles, and they hurt!

Adding insult to injury, I have developed a secondary bacterial infection with it.

I am taking 2 prescriptions the doctor gave me, with no success so far. I'll wait a few more days, though.

I've tried Tea Tree oil, extra E and C, and my purple plate. I'm drinking water zapped by my plate, and eating lots of fresh fruits and veggies.

I've had some Reiki, and Ju jin jyushu (sp?).
And the result? It's spreading, and running berserk.

I could really use some patience, coping, and forbearance vibes.

Thank you friends!

posted June 17, 2004 02:11 PM         

Are you interested in doing a cleanse? We talk a little about the process in the thread here called "there are no incurable diseases." It's not for everyone, but it's the only thing I have to offer. www.herbdoc.com

posted June 17, 2004 02:35 PM         

Shingles are a variation of the Chicken pox: the Varicella virus. I had CP as a kid. Now they have an immunization for it.

I guess the virus lives in the roots of nerves in your spine and can reinfect you sometimes.

It's also related to the Herpes family. Bleh!

So I have a patch on my leg, about the size of my palm, and another on my hip about the size of a quarter. They have red chicken pox - like bumps, surrounded by a lovely circle of PURPLE. Looks yucky!

It's ths sort of thing that won't kill you, but it'll make you cranky. I'm a I can be cranky all by myself!

posted June 18, 2004 12:24 AM         

These are my recommendations: Check with your doctor.

Vitamin B complex - Needed for nerve health

Zinc - Very important enhances immunity and
protects against infection. 50mg

Calcium/Magnesium - Nerve function and
anti stress. 1,500 mg
daily.

Vitamin E 800IU - Helps prevent formation
of scars. Alleviates
discomfort and pain.

You can open up a capsule and apply it directly on the ares affected. Use alpha tocopherol form.

Collidal Silver - GREAT for shingles taken internally and used externally also.

Zinc Oxide - Can also bring relief applied externally.

It's a horrible nasty thing. However, it will run it's cause if you stay calm and rested, eat well, and make sure that your body has all the help it can to fight this off. Be careful when you wash. Lie in a bathtub for awhile - avoid hot please, add Tea Tree oil about 4/5 drops. Careful with drying. Then apply your other treaments. I would do the E. first.

You gave me no indication where it was. I presume it's on the upper body/waist? When I was a nurse this was common place in patients who were low after illness. I send you tons of and much healing.

The Acidophilius is a very good idea for later. Use a non dairy formula.

I suspect you're anti virals. They do help to shorten the life span of shingles.

posted June 18, 2004 09:40 AM         

Within an hour of posting, I noticed the itching beginning to ease. This morning, some of the lesions are opening. I'm told this is a sign of progress. It still hurts, but for the first time in a week, it is getting better.

Gia, it's on my leg above my knee. The largest patch is about 6" diameter. And, it's migrating upwards, towards my hip. Unusual, the doc said, but not unheard of. The meds are Keflex and Valtrex. (sp?) I have added zinc and zinc oxide to my routine. Most of the other suggestions I had already done.

No stress other than a stay at home Mom of a 3 & 5 year old, on summer vacation. I did have some fatigue and a low grade fever before. But fatigue has been a daily routine for years -- I have sleep apnea, too. So I didn't notice anything until this ugly "bug bite" appeared.

I truly appreciate the love & support. I will update everyone, too. But please know your thoughts and prayers ARE effective.

posted June 18, 2004 06:18 PM         

It is a liitle more unusual that it should erupt there. Though, I guess not totally unheard of. Sometimes if you have an injury, scrape, or bite it activates those nerve endings and starts the ball rolling. You must try and control this fatigue otherwise you will probably be susceptible again. I'd hate for that to be an issue. Have you had yourself checked out?

Keflex is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, mainly skin, joints and soft tissues. Normally short term therapy 10 - 14 days.
Common side effects are stomach cramps, mild diarrhea, nausea and sore tongue. Anything worse and you must consult your doctor.

Valtrex is anti viral used to treat all types of Herpes and Shingles. It's very good at stopping the virus from multiplying and also speed the healing. I don't normally like drugs, however this one really helps with little side effects. It also seems to help weaken the virus so it does not activate again easily. Must not be taken if you have kidney problems or have ever had a transplant of bone marrow.

Glad to read it's better. Do continue with the topical treatments for a liitle while, even after what seems to be total healing. Especially the E. The calmer the area is, the better healing you'll have where it matters.

Love Gia

posted June 19, 2004 12:14 PM         

The shingles outbreaks seem to be spreading. Not unusual, I guess, since they will have been busy a few days before erupting. I waited a week to see the doc, which didn't help. But I didn't know it was serious.

I am definitely noticng the effects of your love. It hurts, but it's not unbearable, and the itching stopped.

So, I muddle along. Thanks to you.

posted June 28, 2004 11:12 AM         

THANK YOU for the love, light, energy, and prayers!

Group hug!