Got diagnosed with shingles yesterday

After hurricane Laura, I was extremely stressed out due to having a one month old baby girl and no house, and having to live with my soon to be ex in laws. I got shingles three times in two months. It was terrible, although it was not the first time I've had them. I seemingly come down with a case of them during what some would consider extremely stressful situations.

For me personally, the pain typically went away once the swelling went down. I was always given a steroid shot which is what made the swelling go away within the first 24-48 hours of the blisters showing up.

I've had them so many times now, I usually know about 12 hours before the blisters show up that its coming and immediately get to my doctor for a steroid shot and prescription.

It typically shows up on my hands and wrists for some reason.

I've had shingles 6 times now, and I'm 36 years old.

Duration is variable, but it is contagious if draining until the blisters dry and crust over. The rash typically follows along one or one + an adjacent dermatome.

If you go to your doctor within 48-72 hours of noticing it he can give you antiviral medication, steroid shot, and nerve pain pills.

I was prescribed some Valtrex on Tuesday... Hopefully it kicks in soon

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I was prescribed some Valtrex on Tuesday.

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That should dry it up within a couple days.

I had it years ago. Pain was bad though not excruciating. Got on the meds pretty quick and I want to say everything got back to normal in about a week.I think if you sweat it can take longer to heal. Don’t have any scars.

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Duration is variable, but it is contagious

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You can't catch shingles from someone. You can catch chickenpox from someone that has shingles though.