Baths
Although it might seem like a nice, hot bath would help with nerve pain, in the case of shingles, your best bet is a cool soak in the tub. It’s not only soothing to the blisters, but also offers a prime chance to keep the rash clean, which will encourage better healing. While most topical products for shingles have a restriction on the number of uses per day, baths are an unlimited tool for remedying itchy, painful skin caused by shingles. Taking a cool bath with starch in it will also help dry out the blisters, sooth your skin, and relieve itching. Epsom salt is another soothing ingredient for bath time.
An oatmeal bath is a soothing, drying option as well. There are several packaged options for oatmeal baths, or you can make your own. Do not use pre-flavored oatmeal, as the sugar and flavoring will likely irritate your skin further. Opt for a large package of plain rolled oats, and grind them down to a powder. Combine the powder with warm water to create a smooth, milk-colored bath. As a bonus, any leftover dust can be used to sprinkle over shingles blisters to help keep them dry and prevent them from sticking to clothes or bed sheets.
Did you know...
- Need a quick cool down? Try drinking some hot liquid. It's true! As counterintuitive as it may seem, the heat from hot liquids will raise your body temperature. This will heat you up and cause you to sweat. The increased perspiration will wind up helping you feel cooler as it evaporates. Try it out!
- There are many factors that contribute to your body odor, but one of the strongest links is our diet. This may be some bad news for meat-lovers because many studies have shown that those who refrained from or ate less red meat were judged as being more pleasant smelling. The meat sweats are real, and they don’t smell great!
- Just saying the words "thank you" can measurably improve your mood. Researchers can actually measure happiness and changes in brain structure when people practiced regular "grateful thinking." This included things like writing thank you notes, writing gratitude journal entries, mindfully counting their blessings, and thanking friends. It may be helpful in overcoming depression!
- A hearty laugh is good for the heart. Laughing can increase blood flow by 20%. Additionally, looking on the bright side can help you live longer. Studies have shown that a more optimistic outlook is linked to a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, and a lower risk for coronary artery disease.
- Are you currently or often tired? As contradictory as it may sound, one of the best things you can do is exercise! It gives you more energy by improving your blood flow and increasing your oxygen throughout your body. You don't need to do much; a brisk walk is all it takes!