Shingles

Name: Shingles
SKU: 605
Price: 35.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

From £35.00

Worried you have Shingles? Let us help you.

What is Shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection brought on by the chickenpox virus that affects a nerve and the skin around it. As a result, the affected area develops blistered itchy, painful rash. Only people who have previously experienced chickenpox can get shingles.

The virus stays in the nerves after the initial infection and causes shingles when it reawakens in one specific nerve. After the initial chickenpox infection, this can occur years or even decades later. The virus frequently re-emerges in these ways in patients with compromised immune systems, however it is unclear why. The duration of each case of shingles might range from a few weeks to a month.

Although there is no known cure for shingles, there are several therapies that can help make the discomfort it causes more bearable. You should speak to our clinician or your GP right away if you suspect that you have shingles.

£35.00

What are the causes of Shingles?

Shingles occurs when the dormant varicella-zoster virus reactivates in the body. The exact reason for this reactivation is not fully understood, but several factors can increase the risk:

Age: Shingles is more common in people over the age of 50. The risk increases with age.

Weakened Immune System: Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or immunosuppressive medications, can trigger the reactivation of the virus.

Stress: High levels of stress or emotional trauma can sometimes trigger an outbreak.

History of Chickenpox: Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, although it can occur in individuals who have received the chickenpox vaccine as well.

What are the symptoms of Shingles?

The following are typical signs and symptoms:

Red rash with fluid filled blisters in groups or long striped patterns

Pain

Post hepatic neuralgia which can last for 3 months

Tingling in the area affected

Itchying

Uncomfortable

High temperature

Headaches

Generally feeling unwell and tired.

Once the blisters burst, you are no longer contagious.

Is there treatment available for Shingles?

To treat symptoms yourself:

Keep the rash dry and clean to prevent infection

Wear loose clothing

Apply cold compresses a few times a day

Paracetamol can be used for pain relief.

Antiviral medications can be used to shorten the severity and frequency of shingles. Ideally, treatment should be started in the first 3 days of symptoms. Antidepressants, topical creams, and painkillers are used to treat chronic pain.

Our clinicians can prescribe treatment for the management of the condition and to relieve symptoms. Please contact us straightway if you suspect you have shingles. You can choose either a video or telephone consultation. Please attach pictures of non-intimate areas if you choose the telephone consultation option.

If you would like more information on shingles, please click the NHS link: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/shingles/