Shingles

Shingles is a painful rash caused by an infection of a nerve underneath the skin with the varicella-zoster virus.

Symptoms

The symptoms of shingles include a tingling or painful feeling in an area of skin. Sometimes, a person with shingles may have a headache or feel generally unwell. A rash will usually appear a few days later. In rare cases shingles can cause pain without a rash.

Usually, the shingles rash appears on the chest and tummy, but it can appear anywhere on your body including on your face, eyes and genitals. The rash appears as blotches on your skin, on one side of your body only. A rash on both the left and right of your body is unlikely to be shingles.

Common Causes

Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox.

Common Treatments

Treatment for shingles can also include medicines to help relieve pain, such as painkillers, steroid tablets or medicines that help with nerve pain. Antivirals may be indicated.

Visit Cohens Chemist for advice on Shingles

Our pharmacists are healthcare professionals who are experts in medicines. They can provide valuable advice and appropriate treatment for shingles, without the need for a GP appointment.