Does shingles leave scars after it heals?

Although shingles is not as dangerous as some other conditions, if not treated in time, it can seriously affect the skin structure and the nervous system in the affected area, causing severe consequences for the patient.
The main cause of the disease is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles is most dangerous when the virus attacks the trigeminal nerve system on the face, causing blisters to appear on the eyes, mouth, and ears, leading to visual and auditory damage. Shingles can be completely treated, but after recovery, it can leave sequelae such as dark spots and scars on the skin, affecting appearance.

2. Characteristics of scars in shingles

• The scar color may be dark red, and in some cases, dark purple.
• Shingles scars can be flat or slightly raised on the skin surface. Sometimes, complications can lead to large keloid scars or even pitted scars.
• The location of the shingles scars on the face can make women feel uncomfortable, even affecting their psychology or causing self-esteem issues after the disease.

Therefore, proper treatment of the disease, along with a balanced diet, regular lifestyle, and appropriate precautions, is very important.

3. Measures to prevent shingles scars

• Seek medical attention within 48 hours of noticing skin damage, and strictly follow the doctor's medical instructions.
• Bathe daily and keep the body and affected skin area clean. Be sure not to scratch, rub soap, or apply any chemicals directly to the affected area.
  Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid further irritation to the damaged skin area.
• After the shingles area has healed, consult a doctor for recommendations on appropriate scar treatment creams. At this point, new skin has formed, so it will be easier to absorb and heal the damage caused by the virus. If the shingles scars persist for a long time, treatment will be more difficult.
• Avoid exposing the damaged area to sunlight. UV rays can stimulate melanin pigment formation, making the scar darker.
• Increase nutrition by consuming foods that are good for the skin, such as fruits, water, vegetables, foods rich in Omega-3, and Vitamin C. These nutrients will help the body synthesize and transport nutrients, speeding up wound healing.
• Do not self-medicate with methods like applying mung beans, sticky rice, or traditional herbs to the affected skin area, as this increases the risk of secondary infections, skin ulcers, irritation, and could worsen the shingles scars.
• Avoid using stimulants like alcohol, beer, cigarettes, coffee, spicy foods, or processed foods. Chemicals in these foods hinder the healing process and can cause scars to take longer to heal, increasing the risk of infection.
• Maintain a relaxed mindset: When dealing with shingles, do not worry too much. Stay determined and patient with treatment for effective results.
• The best way to prevent the disease is to get a chickenpox vaccine so that children do not get the disease and avoid later developing shingles.

Currently, some antiviral medications can control symptoms, shorten the duration, and reduce the severity of the disease, combined with scar treatment drugs to help patients avoid recurrence and prevent scars after recovery.

If you experience any abnormal symptoms, you should consult a specialist for examination and advice.

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