PHARMACY FIRST
Shingles
Shingles is a common condition covered for free by the NHS Pharmacy First service. It's crucial to have a basic understanding of shingles to seek proper treatment. Shingles is caused by the same virus that leads to chickenpox. However, it only affects those who have had chickenpox before.
While shingles cannot be passed from person to person, those with shingles can still transmit chickenpox to those who have not been vaccinated or had the virus. It's important to be cautious, especially around vulnerable individuals. Shingles presents as a line of blisters on the chest or face.
Age range
18 years and over
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What is shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash, usually appearing on one side of the body or face. It is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus and is more common in older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Through the Pharmacy First service, our pharmacist can assess your symptoms, provide expert advice, and, where appropriate, provide antiviral treatment if you meet the service criteria. Early treatment is most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.
If your symptoms are severe or involve your eyes, we'll ensure you're referred for urgent medical assessment.
Symptoms of Shingles
Shingles can cause a variety of inconvenient symptoms, with the rash being one of the most common and uncomfortable. It can last for 2 - 4 weeks, causing significant discomfort.
As the healing process progresses, the rash will go through different phases. At the beginning, it will simply appear as a flat rash without any blisters. However, within a couple of days, it will transform into fluid-filled blisters that may contain blood and eventually burst. Although this may seem alarming, it is a normal part of the shingles cycle.
After 7 - 10 days, the blisters will dry up and form scabs. And once they have completely dried out, they will fall off on their own during the final stage of healing, which typically takes 2 - 4 weeks.
Affected vision (if the blisters occur on the face)
A blistering rash which can appear as a band or strip on the body
Burning / itchy skin
Fatigue
Fever
Headache
Sensitivity to Light
Who is most at risk?
As risk increases with age or immune suppression, it is important to recognise early symptoms and seek prompt advice or treatment.
Shingles is more common in adults over 50, as the immune system naturally becomes weaker with age.
People with a weakened immune system are also at higher risk of developing shingles.
This may be due to certain medications, such as corticosteroids or chemotherapy.
Autoimmune conditions can also reduce immune function and increase susceptibility.
What you should know
Shingles can be painful, but with the right treatment most cases improve within a few weeks. Understanding your treatment options and potential complications can help you act early and reduce the risk of long-term issues.
Treatment
Treatment for shingles may include antiviral medication, pain relief, topical creams or ointments, and in some cases other medicines to help manage nerve pain.
Antiviral medicines are most effective when started within 72 hours of symptoms appearing, as they can help reduce the severity and duration of the infection.
In some cases, antivirals may still be recommended after this window if clinically appropriate.
Over-the-counter painkillers may be advised to help manage discomfort.
Topical treatments can help soothe itching and irritation directly on the affected skin.
Medicines such as antidepressants or anticonvulsants may occasionally be used for nerve-related pain.
Corticosteroids may be considered in more severe cases, but only under careful clinical guidance due to potential risks.
A pharmacist or GP can assess your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Possible Complications
Most cases of shingles resolve without long-term issues, but complications can occasionally occur.
The rash may become infected, requiring antibiotic treatment.
Scarring of the affected skin can sometimes develop.
If shingles affects the eye area, it may lead to vision problems if not treated promptly.
In rare cases, complications such as Ramsay Hunt syndrome can affect facial nerves and hearing.
Early treatment is important to reduce the risk of complications and support recovery.
If you suspect shingles, you can access advice and treatment through NHS Pharmacy First or your GP.