Question 1

Can I come to a Korean medicine clinic first for shingles?

Accepted Answer

In the acute phase antiviral medication comes first. Starting within 72 hours of the rash matters.

Question 2

The rash has healed but only the pain remains.

Accepted Answer

This is post-herpetic neuralgia. It is the range in which Korean medicine treatment has a role.

Question 3

Do you needle the area where the blisters are?

Accepted Answer

While the blisters are present we do not treat that area directly.

Question 4

How long will I need treatment?

Accepted Answer

The acute phase two to four weeks; remaining neuralgia is sometimes viewed over many months or longer.

Question 5

Can shingles happen again?

Accepted Answer

There are cases of recurrence. It reappears in periods when immunity drops.

Question 6

The pain stops me sleeping.

Accepted Answer

We treat sleep separately. When sleep is broken the pain is felt more severely.

Question 7

What role does pharmacopuncture play?

Accepted Answer

We inject a small amount at tight areas within the pain distribution. We do not use it while blisters are present.

Question 8

If I get vaccinated will I not catch it?

Accepted Answer

We cannot tell you it prevents it completely. However, if you are eligible we recommend it.

Herpes Zoster

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