Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It occurs when the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, reactivates in the body. If you think you have shingles, seek medical advice as soon as possible, as early treatment can help reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
Check If You Have Shingles
The first symptoms of shingles may include:
A tingling, burning, or painful sensation in an area of skin
Headache or feeling generally unwell
Sensitivity to touch
A rash usually appears a few days later, forming blotches that develop into itchy, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters burst, dry out, and scab over within a few days. Shingles typically appears on one side of the body, most often on the chest, back, or face.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should seek urgent medical help from your GP or NHS 111 if you suspect shingles, as antiviral medication is most effective when taken within three days of the rash appearing. Early treatment can help shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the risk of complications.
How We Can Help
For adults aged 18 and over, our expert pharmacists provide support through the Pharmacy First scheme. We can assess your symptoms, offer tailored advice, and prescribe antiviral medication to help reduce the severity and duration of shingles.
Treatment for Shingles
Antiviral medication: Prescribed if you have a weakened immune system, severe pain, or a widespread rash.
Pain relief: Paracetamol, ibuprofen, or prescription painkillers may help.
Skin care: Keeping the rash clean and dry reduces the risk of infection. Cool compresses and loose clothing can also provide relief.
How Long Shingles Lasts
The rash usually clears within 2 to 4 weeks, but some people experience lingering pain in the affected area, known as post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). This can last for months after the rash has healed.
Avoid Spreading Shingles
While shingles itself is not contagious, the virus can cause chickenpox in those who haven’t had it before. To reduce the risk of spreading the virus:
✔ Keep the rash covered.
✔ Avoid close contact with pregnant women, newborns, and those with weakened immune systems.
✔ Wash hands regularly.
Stay off work or school if the rash is oozing and cannot be covered.
Possible Complications
Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) – long-lasting nerve pain
Skin infections – may require antibiotics
Eye complications – can affect vision if shingles occurs near the eyes
Muscle weakness – rare cases affecting movement
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome – shingles affecting the facial nerve, leading to facial paralysis and hearing issues
Shingles Vaccine
A shingles vaccine is available on the NHS for:
People turning 65 on or after 1 September 2023
Adults aged 70 to 79 who have not been vaccinated
Adults over 50 with a weakened immune system
Vaccination helps prevent shingles or reduces its severity if it does occur.
If you have symptoms or need advice, speak to our trained pharmacists for expert support and treatment options.
