• you have a weakened immune system
• your pain or your rash is moderate or severe
• Our pharmacists can offer advice & treatment for shingles, including prescription treatment, where appropriate, for individuals aged 18 & over. 
• Accessing professional Shingles Treatment uk at your local pharmacy ensures you get the care you need quickly.
• Shingles occur when a nerve becomes infected, causing a painful rash on the skin around it.
• Symptoms of shingles include:
• Pain in the affected area, followed by a rash that develops days later
• This rash will only appear on one side of your body; if there is a rash on both sides it’s unlikely to be shingles
• The rash may develop into itchy blisters that may ooze fluid
• New blisters can appear for up to a week
• Choosing an effective Shingles Rash Treatment is vital for managing the discomfort and supporting your recovery.

FAQ

How can I tell if the pain I’m experiencing is due to shingles? 

The pain caused by shingles is unique as it is confined to one nerve pathway.  You may experience “nerve-like” pain that is burning, shooting, or tingling in one area of your skin. Usually, the pain occurs before the rash actually appears. If you experience this type of pain followed by a blistering rash that occurs on one side of your body, this is a strong indication of shingles.

What will happen during my pharmacy consultation?

During this consultation, our pharmacist will conduct a private evaluation to see if you qualify for our shingles service. They will check your rash (it must be one-sided and typical of shingles), and will ask you about your pain, as well as your previous medical history. If it is determined that you qualify, we are able to provide you with a prescription to help the rash heal faster and to help decrease the pain and the duration of the pain.

Is shingles considered to be contagious?

You cannot “catch” shingles from someone, but someone with an active rash can transmit the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster virus) to someone who has not yet had chickenpox. If you have a rash, be sure to keep it covered with loose clothing and avoid contact with pregnant women, newborns, and anyone who has a weakened immune system until the blisters have dried and crusted over.

What are the benefits of early intervention?

Identifying the correct treatment within the first 72 hours from the onset of the rash is crucial, as it helps to immensely decrease the severity of the infection and the duration of the pain. The earlier you contact us, the better we are able to control your symptoms and minimize the risk of developing chronic complications.

What should I do to control the pain?

In addition to the prescribed treatment, you may control the pain by wearing loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibers, keeping the rash clean and dry, and applying cool, moist compresses to the blisters. Also, antibiotics, sticky bandages, and creams should not be used, as they may increase irritation to the affected area.

Don’t Manage the Pain Alone

While shingles is undoubtedly a highly uncomfortable condition, you do not have to endure it by yourself. The sooner you get the appropriate treatment, the faster you will be able to regain your comfort and return to your normal daily activities. The pharmacy team is available to provide you with a clinical service in a convenient, professional, and supportive way, without the complications of a GP consultation.