3 Ways to Treat Throat Shingles

Even though the throat is an unusual location for shingles, there are cases where this infection manifests in the throat causing a rash that is sensitive to touch and often tingles or itches. Also known as herpes zoster, the Center for Disease Control estimates that 600,000 to 1 million cases of shingles are reported each year in the United States. It is caused by the chickenpox virus or the varicella virus. One in 10 people who have ever had chicken pox will get shingles.

Treatment for throat shingles follows a similar course for shingles that manifest in the more common areas of the body like the trunk, arms or legs. One of the most widely-prescribed treatments for shingles is taking a course of an antiviral medication like acyclovir (Zovirax) or valacyclovir (Valtrex). These medications must be prescribed by a doctor after diagnosis and are most effective when they are taken within 72 hours of symptom onset.

Raised red bumps and blisters caused by the shingles virus. (Image: librakv/iStock/Getty Images)

Even though the throat is an unusual location for shingles, there are cases where this infection manifests in the throat causing a rash that is sensitive to touch and often tingles or itches. Also known as herpes zoster, the Center for Disease Control estimates that 600,000 to 1 million cases of shingles are reported each year in the United States. It is caused by the chickenpox virus or the varicella virus. One in 10 people who have ever had chicken pox will get shingles.

Treatment for throat shingles follows a similar course for shingles that manifest in the more common areas of the body like the trunk, arms or legs. One of the most widely-prescribed treatments for shingles is taking a course of an antiviral medication like acyclovir (Zovirax) or valacyclovir (Valtrex). These medications must be prescribed by a doctor after diagnosis and are most effective when they are taken within 72 hours of symptom onset.