How I finally rid myself of shingles after 5 months:

56 years old

Rash is usually on my stomach sometimes on my back

I have had 6 episodes since May 2017

My first episode was in May so I was 55

No autoimmune diseases

I don't have a copy of the blood test results but the immunologist tested for 'everything' and all blood tests conducted were clear except for a mild vitamin D deficiency

I don't take any medication except for valtrex/ famciclovir when necessary

I don't have any other diseases. I do have stomach polyps (small) and gallstones (small). The doctor said they were caused because I had Hyperemesis gravidarum during both my pregnancies.

I do have 2 highly stressful jobs: psychologist and University lecturer.

I find if I have acupuncture twice weekly (and take manuka honey and black seed oil) I can stave off episodes but I don't think I have ever really manged to totally conquer the disease. Thank you so much for your time Ruby

Hi Ruby,

You have probably read a lot of my responses to the individuals reaching out for help.

My health and social history is complex , to say the least.

I went through an acrimonious divorce from a violent man. I separated from him in 1992 after he tried to kill me twice in front of our 3 year old son. I filed for divorce in NH and drove with my son to California. I had him locked up in a psychiatric hospital for 3 weeks while I packed up the house, obtained a domestic violence petition, and moved cross country. He stalked me in California.

I went to graduate school to become an FNP at UCSD, while working as an RN and as a single mother. To say I was under huge stress is an understatement. I also was on and off corticosteroids for asthma. I have autoimmune diseases, that I suspected at the time, but the Physicians did not agree with or diagnose yet.

My first episode was not diagnosed in a timely manner, nor did I receive any analgesics.

The Herpes Zoster-Shingles was in my right ear and it took 3-1/2 weeks for the vesicle-blisters to appear in the ear canal. Because I received no Antivirals or analgesics, I was a set-up for frequent recurrent Herpes Zoster-Shingles. Acyclovir did not help at all, nor did Valcyclovir. Only Famciclovir helps decrease the frequency of pain and duration of episodes with me.

Moving on in my life...I received extensive therapy for PTSD and Major Depressive Disorder, including coping skills. I moved on, so to speak, and have an extremely positive life. My son is 28, doing well, happy, kind, well-adjusted and will never harm any creature.

My medical issues are well-controlled. I am not stressed at all, anymore. This is a huge component...to my not getting Shingles.

I was also diagnosed with breast cancer 2-1/2 years ago, then a large skin cancer 8 months ago. Of course, by the time I had the partial mastectomy, then radiation, then chemotherapy, it took some time... Cancer suppressed my immune system. Once everything was normalized, no more radiation etc and I was healed that helped. Breast Cancer is in your body at least 7-10 years growing before it is discovered, BTW...

My Vitamin D level was 14, so I take 2000 IU daily. Vitamin D is essential for a healthy immune system. It takes time for your body to build it up, BTW.

Google High Lysine Low Arginine Diet and Herpes Zoster-Shingles. I have been following this diet for over a year. It took about six months before I noticed a decrease in frequency of my episodes, but I know it has helped. I don't bother with supplements, as

I feel it is better to get the amino acids through food, naturally.

Vitamin D, I drank a ton of milk, but still couldn't get enough via sun and milk... The problem with aging!!!

You might wish to get all your Vitamin levels tested, just in case...

I hope this helps...

Best Wishes

Merry Juliana

Thank you so much for taking the time to provide such a detailed and honest response and such useful recommendations. I apologise for the late reply but I have been interstate for the Christmas period. It is wonderful to hear that you have finally got the episodes of shingles under control after everything you have been through. I will definitely be researching the High Lysine/low arginine diet and getting my vitamin levels checked.

I hope your health continues to improve.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2018

Ruby

It is my pleasure to help you and others!

Happy New Years!

Merry Juliana

If have not had any luck with anything on ur list, had shingles 8 years.

had the vaccine right after breakout and that has lessoned the recurrance and severity of shingles. Not one serious break out since the first skin biopsy. Really anti viral drugs don't help . Mainly get the itching with one bump . It has developed into nerve disease with shingles mild sting and numbness in feet .

Hi Hope

It must be very frustrating to have had shingles for 8 years and to have tried everything and not get a positive outcome. A friend of mine has had some success with a holistic doctor whereby the doctor orders a comprehensive battery of tests (way beyond the norm) and then determines the patient's deficiencies from those results. On the basis of the results, the doctor prescribes supplements to address the deficiencies. She has been taking the supplements for 2 years and has enjoyed perfect health. Maybe it's worth a try,

Ruby

Ruby,

While I didn't go to a holistic doctor, I did alter my diet to High Lysine Low Arginine Diet and also found that my Vitamin D level was 14, extremely low. I now take Vitamin D3 2000 IU

daily. I already consumed 2 quarts of milk daily, but apparently that was insufficient intake for Vitamin D3. Now I haven't had a major episode in 9 months. I had severe episodes in my right ear every three to five weeks for the past 21 years.

Thanks for your suggestions and your support on this site.

Happy New Years

Merry Juliana