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Shingles



NHS Choices Syndication

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Shingles

Causes of shingles

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the virus that causes chickenpox.

After you have had chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus lies dormant (inactive) inside your body. It can become reactivated at a later stage and cause shingles.

It is not known exactly why the virus is reactivated, but it is linked to having lowered immunity (protection against infection and diseases).

Your immunity to illness and infection can become lowered if there is a problem with your immune system (the body’s natural defence system). This can happen as a result of:

  • old age – as you age, your immunity may decrease, and shingles most commonly occurs in people over 70 years old
  • physical and emotional stress – the chemicals released by your body when you are stressed can prevent your immune system working properly
  • HIV and AIDS – people with HIV are much more likely to get shingles than the rest of the population because their immune system is weak
  • recently having a bone marrow transplant – the conditioning you require before the transplant will weaken your immune system
  • recently having an organ transplant – you may need to take medication to suppress your immune system so your body accepts the donated organ
  • chemotherapy – chemotherapy medication, often used to treat cancer, can temporarily weaken your immune system

However, young people who appear otherwise healthy can also sometimes develop shingles.

Is shingles contagious?

It is not possible to catch shingles from someone else with the condition, or from someone with chickenpox.

However, it is possible for someone who has never had chickenpox to catch it from someone with shingles, as the shingles blisters contains the live virus.

In the UK, chickenpox is so common during childhood that 9 out of 10 adults have already had it and will not be at risk from someone with shingles.

Catching chickenpox

The blisters that develop as a result of shingles contain virus particles. If you have not had chickenpox before, you can catch it from direct contact with the fluid from the blisters of someone who has shingles, or from something that has the fluid on it, such as bed sheets or a towel.

If you have shingles, you are contagious until the last blister has scabbed over. This will usually occur after about 10 to 14 days.

Preventing the virus spreading

If you have the shingles rash, do not share towels or flannels, go swimming, or play contact sports. This will help prevent the virus being passed on to someone who has not had chickenpox.

You should also avoid work or school if your rash is weeping (oozing fluid) and cannot be covered.

Chickenpox can be particularly dangerous for certain groups of people. If you have shingles, avoid:

  • women who are pregnant and have not had chickenpox before as they could catch it from you, which may harm their unborn baby
  • people who have a weak immune system, such as someone with HIV or AIDS
  • babies less than one month old, unless it is your own baby, in which case your baby should have antibodies (proteins that fight infection) to protect them from the virus

Once your blisters have dried and scabbed over, you are no longer contagious and will not need to avoid anyone.

Published Date
2014-07-10 09:56:54Z
Last Review Date
2014-06-24 00:00:00Z
Next Review Date
2016-06-24 00:00:00Z
Classification
Shingles


NHS Choices Syndication

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Shingles

Complications of shingles

Complications can sometimes occur as a result of shingles. They are more likely if you have a weakened immune system (the body’s natural defence system) or are elderly.

Some of the main complications associated with shingles are described below.

Postherpetic neuralgia

Postherpetic neuralgia is the most common complication of shingles. It’s not clear exactly how many people are affected, but some estimates suggest that as many as one in five people over 50 could develop postherpetic neuralgia as the result of shingles.

Postherpetic neuralgia can cause severe nerve pain (neuralgia) and intense itching that persists after the rash and any other symptoms of shingles have gone.

Types of pain experienced by people with postherpetic neuralgia include:

  • constant or intermittent burning, aching, throbbing, stabbing, or shooting pain
  • allodynia – where you feel pain from something that should not be painful, such as changes in temperature or the wind
  • hyperalgesia – where you are very sensitive to pain

Postherpetic neuralgia sometimes resolves after around three to six months, although it can last for years and some cases can be permanent. It can be treated with a number of different painkilling medicines.

Read more about treating postherpetic neuralgia.

Eye problems

If one of your eyes is affected by shingles (ophthalmic shingles), there is a risk you could develop further problems in the affected eye, such as:

  • ulceration (sores) and permanent scarring of the surface of your eye (cornea)
  • inflammation of the eye and optic nerve (the nerve that transmits signals from the eye to the brain)
  • glaucoma – where pressure builds up inside the eye

If not treated promptly, there is a risk that ophthalmic shingles could cause a degree of permanent vision loss.

Ramsay Hunt syndrome

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a complication that can occur if shingles affects certain nerves in your head.

In the US, Ramsay Hunt syndrome is estimated to affect 5 in 100,000 people every year and it may affect a similar number of people in the UK.

Ramsay Hunt syndrome can cause:

  • earache 
  • hearing loss 
  • dizziness
  • vertigo (the sensation that you or the environment around you is moving or spinning)
  • tinnitus (hearing sounds coming from inside your body, rather than an outside source) 
  • a rash around the ear
  • loss of taste
  • paralysis (weakness) of your face, known as Bell’s palsy

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is usually treated with antiviral medication and corticosteroids.

The earlier treatment is started, the better the outcome. Around three-quarters of people given antiviral medication within 72 hours of the start of their symptoms usually make a complete recovery.

If treatment is delayed, only about half of those treated will recover completely.

Those who don’t make a full recovery may be left with permanent problems, such as a degree of permanent facial paralysis or hearing loss.

Other complications

A number of other possible problems can also sometimes develop as a result of shingles, including:

  • the rash becoming infected with bacteria – see your GP if you develop a high temperature, as this could be a sign of a bacterial infection
  • white patches (a loss of pigment) or scarring in the area of the rash
  • inflammation of the lungs (pneumonia), liver(hepatitis), brain (encephalitis), spinal cord (transverse myelitis), or protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)  these complications are rare, however 

Shingles is rarely life threatening, but complications such as those mentioned above mean that around 1 in every 1,000 cases in adults over the age of 70 is fatal.

Published Date
2014-07-10 09:23:26Z
Last Review Date
2014-06-24 00:00:00Z
Next Review Date
2016-06-24 00:00:00Z
Classification
Aches, pains and soreness,Nerve pain,Postherpetic neuralgia,Shingles


NHS Choices Syndication

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Shingles

Diagnosing shingles

Your GP will normally be able to diagnose shingles from your symptoms and the appearance of your rash. Testing is not usually necessary.

Referral

It is uncommon for someone with shingles to be referred to a specialist for further assessment and treatment, but your GP may consider seeking specialist advice or referring you if:

  • they think you may have a complication of shingles, such as meningitis or encephalitis
  • shingles is affecting one of your eyes – there is a risk you could develop permanent vision problems if the condition is not treated quickly
  • you have a weakened immune system – particularly in severe cases or cases affecting children
  • you are pregnant
  • a diagnosis is not certain

You may also be referred to a specialist if you have an unusually persistent case of suspected shingles that is not responding to treatment, or if you have been diagnosed with the condition more than twice.

Who might I see?

Who you are referred to will depend on your circumstances. It could be:

  • a paediatrician (a specialist in the care of babies and children) if your child is affected
  • an ophthalmologist (a doctor who specialises in treating eye conditions) if shingles is affecting one of your eyes
  • your own consultant (a specialist in a particular area of medicine) if you have one for an existing medical condition such as HIV or AIDS

Published Date
2014-07-10 09:46:14Z
Last Review Date
2014-06-24 00:00:00Z
Next Review Date
2016-06-24 00:00:00Z
Classification
Shingles


NHS Choices Syndication

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Shingles

Introduction

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is an infection of a nerve and the skin around it. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox.

Shingles usually affects a specific area on one side of the body and does not cross over the midline of the body (an imaginary line running from between your eyes down past the belly button).

The main symptom is a painful rash that develops into itchy blisters that contain particles of the virus.

An episode of shingles typically lasts around two to four weeks, although around one in five people go on to develop nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia in the affected area of skin.

Read more about the symptoms of shingles.

When to seek medical advice

Shingles is not usually serious, but you should see your GP as soon as possible if you recognise the symptoms. Early treatment may help reduce the severity of your symptoms and the risk of developing complications.

You should also see your GP if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system (the body’s natural defence system) and you think you have been exposed to someone with chickenpox or shingles and haven’t had chickenpox before.

Your GP will usually be able to diagnose shingles based on your symptoms and the appearance of the rash.

Read more about diagnosing shingles.

What causes shingles?

Most people have chickenpox in childhood, but after the illness has gone, the virus remains dormant (inactive) in the nervous system. The immune system keeps the virus in check, but later in life it can be reactivated and cause shingles.

It is not known exactly why the shingles virus is reactivated at a later stage in life, but most cases are thought to be caused by having lowered immunity (protection against infections and diseases).

This may be the result of:

  • being older
  • being stressed
  • taking medication that weakens your immune system
  • a condition that affects your immune system, such as HIV or AIDS

It is not possible to catch shingles from someone with the condition or from someone with chickenpox, but you can catch chickenpox from someone with shingles if you have not had it before.

It is possible to have shingles more than once, but it’s very rare to get it more than twice.

Read more about the causes of shingles.

Who is affected?

Around 9 in every 10 adults in the UK have had chickenpox previously and are potentially at risk of developing shingles.

Shingles can occur at any age, but is most common in people who are over the age of 70. It is much less common in children.

It’s estimated that around one in every four people will have at least one episode of shingles during their life.

How shingles is treated

There is no cure for shingles, but treatment is available to relieve the symptoms until the condition resolves. Most cases of shingles last around two to four weeks.

Treatment for shingles can include:

  • covering the rash with clothing or a non-adherent (non-stick) dressing to reduce the risk of other people becoming infected with chickenpox, as it is very difficult to pass the virus on to someone else if the rash is covered
  • painkilling medication, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or codeine
  • antiviral medication to stop the virus multiplying, although not everyone will need this

Read more about treating shingles.

Complications

Shingles can sometimes lead to complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia. This is where severe nerve pain lasts for several months or more after the rash has gone.

Complications such as this are usually in elderly people who have had the condition and those with a weakened immune system.

Read more about the complications of shingles.

Can shingles be prevented?

It’s not always possible to prevent shingles, but a vaccine called Zostavax can reduce your chances of developing the condition.

If you still develop shingles after having this vaccine, the condition may be milder and last for a shorter time than usual.

This vaccine is now routinely offered to older people on the NHS. It is given as a single injection to anyone aged 70. There is also a catch-up programme for those aged 79 and, from September 2014, 78 and 79-year-olds. You will only need to have this vaccine once.

If you wish to have the shingles vaccine and you are not eligible for the NHS vaccination programme, you will usually need to visit a private clinic. Private vaccination is likely to cost £100-200.

Read more about the shingles vaccination.

Published Date
2014-07-29 09:55:01Z
Last Review Date
2014-06-24 00:00:00Z
Next Review Date
2016-06-24 00:00:00Z
Classification
Shingles

Shingles – NHS Choices

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Shingles 

Introduction 

Shingles

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Shingles is a viral infection of a nerve and the area of skin around it. A GP describes causes, symptoms and treatment options for shingles.

Media last reviewed: 02/10/2013

Next review due: 02/10/2015

Is shingles contagious?

You can’t give shingles to someone else, and you can’t catch shingles from someone with shingles.

However, shingles and chickenpox are caused by the same virus and you can catch chickenpox from someone with shingles, but only if you’ve never had chickenpox before.

Shingles develops when the virus from a chickenpox infection earlier in life, which has lain dormant (inactive) in nerve cells, suddenly reactivates.

The blisters that form contain live virus and if a person who has never had chickenpox makes contact with an open blister, they can contract the virus and develop chickenpox.

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is an infection of a nerve and the skin around it. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox.

Shingles usually affects a specific area on one side of the body and does not cross over the midline of the body (an imaginary line running from between your eyes down past the belly button).

The main symptom is a painful rash that develops into itchy blisters that contain particles of the virus.

An episode of shingles typically lasts around two to four weeks, although around one in five people go on to develop nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia in the affected area of skin.

Read more about the symptoms of shingles.

When to seek medical advice

Shingles is not usually serious, but you should see your GP as soon as possible if you recognise the symptoms. Early treatment may help reduce the severity of your symptoms and the risk of developing complications.

You should also see your GP if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system (the body’s natural defence system) and you think you have been exposed to someone with chickenpox or shingles and haven’t had chickenpox before.

Your GP will usually be able to diagnose shingles based on your symptoms and the appearance of the rash.

Read more about diagnosing shingles.

What causes shingles?

Most people have chickenpox in childhood, but after the illness has gone, the virus remains dormant (inactive) in the nervous system. The immune system keeps the virus in check, but later in life it can be reactivated and cause shingles.

It is not known exactly why the shingles virus is reactivated at a later stage in life, but most cases are thought to be caused by having lowered immunity (protection against infections and diseases).

This may be the result of:

  • being older
  • being stressed
  • taking medication that weakens your immune system
  • a condition that affects your immune system, such as HIV or AIDS

It is not possible to catch shingles from someone with the condition or from someone with chickenpox, but you can catch chickenpox from someone with shingles if you have not had it before.

It is possible to have shingles more than once, but it’s very rare to get it more than twice.

Read more about the causes of shingles.

Who is affected?

Around 9 in every 10 adults in the UK have had chickenpox previously and are potentially at risk of developing shingles.

Shingles can occur at any age, but is most common in people who are over the age of 70. It is much less common in children.

It’s estimated that around one in every four people will have at least one episode of shingles during their life.

How shingles is treated

There is no cure for shingles, but treatment is available to relieve the symptoms until the condition resolves. Most cases of shingles last around two to four weeks.

Treatment for shingles can include:

  • covering the rash with clothing or a non-adherent (non-stick) dressing to reduce the risk of other people becoming infected with chickenpox, as it is very difficult to pass the virus on to someone else if the rash is covered
  • painkilling medication, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or codeine
  • antiviral medication to stop the virus multiplying, although not everyone will need this

Read more about treating shingles.

Complications

Shingles can sometimes lead to complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia. This is where severe nerve pain lasts for several months or more after the rash has gone.

Complications such as this are usually in elderly people who have had the condition and those with a weakened immune system.

Read more about the complications of shingles.

Can shingles be prevented?

It’s not always possible to prevent shingles, but a vaccine called Zostavax can reduce your chances of developing the condition.

If you still develop shingles after having this vaccine, the condition may be milder and last for a shorter time than usual.

This vaccine is now routinely offered to older people on the NHS. It is given as a single injection to anyone aged 70. There is also a catch-up programme for those aged 79 and, from September 2014, 78 and 79-year-olds. You will only need to have this vaccine once.

If you wish to have the shingles vaccine and you are not eligible for the NHS vaccination programme, you will usually need to visit a private clinic. Private vaccination is likely to cost £100-200.

Read more about the shingles vaccination.

Page last reviewed: 25/06/2014

Next review due: 25/06/2016

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Comments

The 53 comments posted are personal views. Any information they give has not been checked and may not be accurate.

oldattendant said on 13 October 2014

This is oldattendant replying to oldretired guy. It was good to hear from someone suffering Shingles in the same place, but not nice to have it. I went to my GP this morning to ask what happens next now that I’ve finished the courses of antibiotics and antivirals. I was told that’s it, now I’ve just got to wait for the scabs to dry up however long it takes. I asked about stronger pain relief and was given some painkillers with a long list of possible side effects. One of these includes a feellng of wanting to kill yourself. I’ve felt pretty bad over the last week but I’ll give that one a miss. My thoughts are shared with you oldretiredguy and here’s hoping we can both soon get healthy again

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oldretiredguy said on 13 October 2014

I also have shingles in exactly the same place. It started on the back & sides of my head under the hair. I have a few spots on my neck now. I’m suffering tremendous head, face and jaw pain. I’m on the same antiviral, no antibiotics, but I’m taking an anti-seizure pill for the nerve pain. It’s not doing much. I just started at the lowest dose. They say I can gradually up it until I get relief in a few weeks. A few weeks?! I’m very discouraged that this will be lasting several more weeks. I can’t get any sleep. The pain is too much. I’m 84 and was fit before this happened. I feel so old almost overnight.

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oldattendant said on 07 October 2014

Has anyone one had Shingles on the back and side of the head underneath the hair. I have recently contracted Shingles in this place and am now on Antibiotics and Aciclovir Antiviral tablets. I am a fit 70 year old male and am experiencing a lot of pain and discomfort and sleepless nights. After reading this website I am concerned that this could go on for a long time. So as I said at the beginning I would like to know if anyone has had Shingles in his area and share their experiences.

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lauram1208 said on 21 September 2014

Recovering from this horrid virus as well. Just noticed what appears to be a new rash, just under my skin. I’m hoping it isn’t a new outbreak. I’ve posted this on the shingles group on FB as well. I had no idea this was such a systemic illness.

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pamtstb said on 24 June 2014

I have just had and recovering from a shingles rash. started about four weeks ago with no rash but a very painful area under my am like I had been scratched. A couple of days later the rash came.from my right breast to my middle back. it is now very painful and aches, the rash is still evident but healing. it was treated with antibiotics, VIRAL, As I am 73 and out of the range for vaccs. Would I benefit from an injection. this is my second bout in a year but the previous one was short and had no lasting symptoms. i am unable to see my doctor until next week so I hope you can advise me. thank you

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User879190 said on 10 June 2014

Well believe me, the pain from shingles can be absolutely awful. It woke me up in middle of night with central chest pain radiating through to my back and shoulder. I thought I was having a heart attack. I had started with a less dramatic but uncomfortable pain in my epigastric region radiating to my back and chest a few days before which was gradually getting worse. That morning after being woken with the very severe pain I noticed the rash and was quickly diagnosed by the nurse led walk-in centre and was given acyclovir medication. I used co-codamol for the pain along with ibrufen. Gradually over two weeks the pain reduced but now in the forth week and have generalized aching in my upper torso, itching all around where the rash was (there was no blistering). It feels like I have sunburn. Also the tiredness is simply crushing and I have to have a sleep in the afternoon. It also has brought on depression which I suffer from at intervals but don’t use medication for it. I do feel sorry for those who have had it several times. If I had to go through this again I don’t know how i would cope.

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Vjjt1990 said on 08 March 2014

Hope someone here can help me… I’m getting some real bad pains in my chest and back on the left hand side. It feels like trapped wind/indigestion, but know it isn’t either of these as I have changed my diet to try and get rid of these symptoms, however, it’s just getting worse.
I had shingles when I was 13 (10 years ago), and can only remember that my right arm ached so bad!!
Could this be the onset of shingles? Has anyone else felt this pain before seeing the rash?
Please help if you can!

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jd71 said on 14 February 2014

Developed Shingles on left side of face for the first time a week ago.
Started with Headache and Left ear burning sensation and then rash appeared.
Thank fully went to doctor who gave me a course of Aciclovir Tabs
Question: can these tabs give me heartburn as I have it most days.

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Fed Up One said on 10 February 2014

59 year old male & this is the second time I have had shingles, almost in exactly the same place as last time about 5 years ago, on my right side.
This time started off with a rash/red spots all over my torso, which I thought was a reaction to washing detergent, the spots cleared after a course of anti biotics & Eumovate cream, however one patch failed to heal & flared up, wasn’t sore just looked red & inflamed.
4 weeks after the onset of the rash it was diagnosed by my doctor as Shingles, another course of anti biotics & a large tub of Diprobase for the rest of my dry skin.
Am pretty fed up as this has now lasted 6 weeks & will now have to wait for the Shingles patch to run its course.

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Di5234 said on 16 January 2014

I am a 62 year old female who has just got over my 4th bout of shingles. This occurred just before Xmas after we had been burgled. Luckily I knew the signs and obtained the anti- virus drug within 72 hrs as this stops the blisters from spreading. The blister were below my right eye and my GP sent me straight away to our local eye hospital. Luckily my eye was fine. 2nd time in my eye, once in my right ear and once on my right shoulder. First time I was 27, then 40, 60 and now 62. WHY can I not have the vaccine? My neighbour was has shingles 8 times was giving the vaccine by her GP but my practice doesn’t give it unless you are in the right ‘age bracket’. I must have cost the NHS more in visits to gp’s/hospitals etc., than the vaccine would have cost. Get my well earned pension next month – will probably treat myself!

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JennRob said on 04 January 2014

Not often do I leave comments but some remarks have led me to share my views… I’ve got shingles and it’s not nice but luckily caught early. However comments below such as ‘sue’ the NHS and ‘NHS should consider the consequence…’ are, in my view, offensive. No doctor is perfect and no system can be tailored to every individuals demands yet we should remember how VERY lucky we are that we can immediatly access free health care, directly and on the internet. Maybe you should remember that if people keep trying to sue the NHS (to get some free money) then NO ONE will have a FREE NHS service left. Maybe you’d feel better having some cash in your pocket, knowing that millions of people can’t afford to pay private fees, would suffer much much more and even worse. Think about your actions and the consequences that affect others and not just yourself.

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Milly Mae said on 30 December 2013

I have just been diagnosed with shingles and this is now the tenth time I have had them. Would be interested to hear if anyone else has had similar experience.

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Silver Black said on 07 December 2013

I am 18 and had shingles on my left chest up till my neck. I started experiencing muscle pain on my neck and naturally, I put some muscle pain relief gel on it. Note muscle pain is a symptom for shingles. Rashes appeared a day later, just a bit lower on my collarbone. Then they spread, now covering my left shoulder. I went to The Royal Surrey County Hospital, fearing it might be shingles. I was first seen by a nurse, who thought it was just some allergic reaction to the muscle pain relief gel that I used. Then I was seen by a doctor, who had no clue who the rashes might be, but had rejected the idea of it being shingles. He consulted another doctor, who had a glimpse of my shoulder and declared it must be shingles. Therefore a third doctor came and she said it couldn’t be shingles because the area covered was too broad. I was given some paracetamol and piriton and was told the ‘allergic reaction’ would just go away a few days later. Just a day later after my trip to the hospital loads of blisters appeared and I felt I was constantly stabbed in my chest. I took my pills which, as you may guess, did nothing to improve my conditions. The paracetamol were not strong enough and I had two nights where I just lied on my bed as I watched the sky went from dark to bright. The piriton made me drowsy and sleepy but the pain had kept me awake. I had never felt so helpless in my life. I went to another doctor two days later and she immediately identified it as shingles and had prescribed me with antibiotics. It has been 3 weeks since the rashes appeared but fortunately they have all faded away. I have red scarring on my chest now and my skin itches from time to time. The first 72 hours of shingles are crucial. If medication is taken within these hours you wouldn’t end up like me, having to suffer sleepless nights in agony. If you believe you have shingles and your doctor disagrees, go see another doctor to prevent misdiagnosis. You REALLY wouldn’t want to take your chances.

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wrinckly said on 20 October 2013

Iam 75 and have been unfortunate to have shingles on the left side of my face,the most excrutiating pain /blisters and tempory blindness in my left eye.I still experience pain after five months. Four visit to A.E eye surgery were required ,to be told my left eye is permanently scared. On reading the leaflet ref vacine for shingles it reads and I quote Immunisation for people aged 70 TO 79 unquote note the word To on making enquiries I was told in no uncertaion terms I would have to wait until I was 79 to obtain an injection, on the other hand having contracted shingles I could have it again . NHS consider the concequeces and the cost if I catch it again

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ValerieL said on 05 October 2013

I am 71. I have had no opportunity to have the shingles immunisation because the policy only allows 70 or 79 year olds to benefit. If I contract shingles before I am 79 and offered the shingles immunisation I shall be able to sue the NHS for their failure to protect me.

I would prefer to just have the immunisation – please reconsider this ridiculous policy.

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Lettie B said on 15 September 2013

I had chicken pox at the age of 31, caught from my three years old daughter. Despite having had just about every other childhood illness, including scarlet fever, I do not ever remember experiencing such pain as when I had chicken pox. Despite being the age of 72, might I be eligible for NHS vaccination?

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Purplegeranium said on 17 August 2013

This website helped me diagnose shingles and get prompt treatment. Three weeks ago on a Saturday morning, I awoke with a pain in my side like I had been punched in the ribs, and noticed a rash in a line along one side of my body from under my breast to the middle of my back. Although I do not like taking medications, I felt that in this instance it was important to get a diagnosis and take anti viral medications ASAP, to avoid post Herpetic Neuropathy ( post shingles nerve pain that can last a while).
I phoned the NHS service 111, a doctor rang me back and called me in for an emergency appointment confirming that I had shingles. Along with the medication, I also took a homeopathic remedy (Rhux Tox), and used a 100% aloe Vera gel to soothe. I also needed to take pain killers for about two and half weeks. Every case is different, a friend of mine was off work for 7 weeks with shingles and you need to do what is right for you . Try not to scratch! Wear something in bed at night to prevent night time scratching.
I am 57, did not feel particualry stressed and this was my first bout of shingles. I did not need to take time off work, fortunately I had a holiday booked after a week. Three weeks on and the blisters are hardly visible and the pain is slight. Good luck!

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Shingles01 said on 07 September 2012

Build up your imune system: I suggest:
[] zero junk food, zero junk drinks
[] lots of fruit and veg
[] gentle exercise in the fresh air every day
[] study your favourite art or music or science
[] brief encounters with your favourite people every day
[] 7 hours sleep at night plus a long nap midday
” a little bit of what you fancy does you good”

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Pixi2900 said on 12 August 2012

Had shingles when i was 8, got it again now (age 21)

Hate it. pretty sure i suffer from depresson but nothing confirmed.

Felt rough for a couple of days before, like a cold.

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fletch09 said on 13 July 2012

im 36 year old male, with out going into detail im going through a very bad patch in my life, feeling very down and low, iv been on meds for this for the last mth now, this last monday i had an appt with the doc for a check up, to see how i was and how i was coping, after asking doc to change my meds due to consent side effects, while i was there i asked about what i thought was bed soars, to be told i had shingles. iv had the pain and rash now for over 2 weeks, no sign of blisters yet(thank god) after reading other peoples comments a lot makes sence, regarding what iv gone through, not only the pain and rash, but also the tiredness and lack of intrest, i cant belive i wasnt given any help of doc, just told theres no cure you have to sit it out 🙁

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dangali said on 04 July 2012

I also have shingles since the 27th of june and I went to a Dr on monday and he gave me injection and painblocks an AD Amoclav,my concern is I m 19weeks pregnant can It harm my baby in anyway?anyone who had shingles while pregnant please help.

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itansley said on 03 July 2012

I am 23 years old and today I have just found out that I have shingles!

No pain, just the rash and blisters! Feeling active and still working. However, ive started to become exhausted at times!! Hopefully this will be it for me.

Eating oatmeal can help with energy and the problem itself! Ive been eating good plus eating good portions of fruit and veg will help too! It will build up the vitamins in your body so you can have a stronger immune system!

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angelina001 said on 04 March 2012

I am a 35 yr old female n have suffered wiv shingles for over 2 yrs,1st the rash was just my right buttock now my back gets in on the left n this is every couple of mths,the aching,loss of appetite,stabbing pains,fatigue is always there,my docs not really gave me much advice,ive had all the blood tests n things n they were all fine.Its really getting me down now,im after any advice on wat i should or shouldnt have,ie; foods,drinks,vitamins,what extra cud I do 2 try n help my situation. Ive read up lots of things myself ie; dont eat chocolate,fish. Do eat beans,yogurt, fruit & veg, Vitamins C,B12,E n Plant Sterols are supoosed to help. Please is there any proof of anything that may help me.

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MASKT said on 27 February 2012

I’ve had shingles for the first time (54 year old male). It’s a miserable affliction but I hope I can see the end of it. But it does take time. Hope the following is useful.

It developed in mid-January. Started as dull ache in torso. Distinctive rash appeared on right torso a few days later on 14 January and I knew it was shingles.

I was abroad at the time and saw a Doctor who prescribed aciclovir and naproxen (500mg 2 x day and/or tramadol (100mg 2 x day) for the pain. naproxen first, and then tramadol if naproxen didn’t do the trick. Rash had largely gone after about a week, but neuralgia continued. Came back to Britain and saw doctor here who continued the prescription but recommended reducing the tramadol. I asked for a light sleeping pill to help me get through the night – I had been having disturbed nights of sleep which hadn’t been much fun. They gave me some zopiclone.

It’s now 6 weeks on and the neuralgic discomfort continues. It’s irritating and depressing rather than disabling. I also feel very tired, though not every day is the same. Some days I feel better than others. Usually wake up feeling ok and then feel gradually more drained and neuralgic as the day progresses.

I have stopped the tramadol, naproxen and zopiclone and am trying to get by with nurofen. 400mg 3 x a day. Stopping the tramadol was not a nice experience, so my advice would be to either avoid starting taking it if you can, or reduce it slowly rather than trying to stop it in one go as I did. I was working when I was abroad and the tramadol did help me keep going during the day, but I paid the price in unpleasant withdrawal symptoms for a day or so.

I’m still not better. Do not feel like doing very much. Can work at home at desk/writing, but anything more than the most light physical activity is really not on. Can’t wait to get rid of remaining neuralgia. Hope it doesn’t become the dreaded post-herpetic neuralgia (e.g when it goes on for more than 3 months)

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Mrs JJM said on 20 February 2012

I have shingles but it really isn’t all that bad. I’m a 53 year old female. Had Chickem Pox as an infant and one incident of shingles aged ten on my right thigh. None since. Four days ago found a shingle type rash on my right shoulder and side under my armpit. The next day was a Saturday so I called our doctor’s practice out of hours service, answered questions and had details taken. Within ten minutes I was called back saying the GP wanted to see me that day. Two hours later I was back at home having being diagnosed with shingles and a weeks worth of Aciclovir. Some mild discomfort and "chill" sensations. Rash continuing to develop but less uncomfortable, now more itchy, but I don’t feel at all unwell. As I work in a college I have been advised to stay away from work. I have an GP appointment this Friday when my medication runs out to see if I need more and if I am allowed back to work. My worry is that there are two pregnant women in my office one at 8 weeks the other at 10 weeks. I do hope I haven’t passed chicken pox to them. I know shingles can be nasty, but my experience so far is that if your rash is not on/in the head, you catch it early and you get the medication it’s not too bad.

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MASKT said on 01 February 2012

I’ve just had my first attack of Shingles (male, age 54). Rash appeared on 15 January after a few days of an aching torso (I thought I’d strained an intercostal muscle from coughing…). I went straight to a doctor and got some Aciclovir and painkillers (Tramadol and Naproxen). This enabled me to carry on working (I was working abroad with a team and didn’t want to let colleagues down). Got home and saw GP and got some sleeping pills to help me rest. Rash has subsided now – a few scabs left. Some remaining allodynia and neuralgia, but I’m weaning myself off the painkillers and sleeping pills as dependence on those could end up being worse than shingles. I think I’m getting slowly better. But the estimates of at least 4 weeks to get over it (I’m in the middle of week 3) sound about right. I’m interested to see that stress can bring on attacks. Never thought of myself as particularly suffering from stress, but I’ll have another think…

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thatmh said on 30 January 2012

oh and I have also felt very stressed and down over the last few weeks due to exams, and revision so I think I have got shingles from stress.

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thatmh said on 30 January 2012

oh and I have also felt very stressed and down over the last few weeks due to exams, and revision so I think I have got shingles from stress.

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thatmh said on 30 January 2012

I am 15 and For about 3 weeks I felt painfully itchy in my ears, on my back, on my face and arms and wasnt quite sure what the issue was. about 4 days ago rashes have appeared in a band round my back and stomach. I have had memory loss forgetting very basic things, I have felt exhausted no matter how long I sleep or nap and have had sore eyes. I also am quite active and have had aching muscles all over and put it down to sports but now I’m pretty sure I have shingles. It was very itchy but its getting better as I bought some pure aloe vera gel which I highly recommend for shingles sufferers. It cools the rash down a lot!

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Juniper5 said on 24 January 2012

On Wikipedia it says that you can be immunised against shingles. Have none of the poor repeat sufferers on here been offered this?

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Rembrandt said on 31 December 2011

I had severe stabbing pains in my leg and eventually the rash came out – I felt dreadful. I went to the local doctor in a big town who told me I had shingles and there was NO TREATMENT and that I wasn’t contagious! Caught the plane home to Oz and the doctor at Singapore airport belatedly gave me Aciclovir. Why didn’t the English doctor prescribe this and save me all this pain/tiredness? It seems to be standard practice! There is also an innoculation which wasn’t mentioned in the UK either! It’s dismal to read others’ comments that I can keep getting this repeatedly. I have had such a severe dose this time!

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xxcaitlinrose said on 20 December 2011

I had shingles a few months ago when I was 16. My experience was pretty much the same as what Redden said on 26 May 2009, my pain itself also wasn’t that bad unless I touched it or if it rubbed against a surface, and I just felt really weak and a bit down, rash is almost completely gone but I still have little white faded dots (not raised and their not a problem at all). Not a nice thing for anyone, at any age.

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MissPickle said on 07 December 2011

Posting my Shingles experience in hope this can help someone else to speedy diagnoses and recovery. Reading posts on this and other websites, experiences between people can be different and I was puzzled for 2-3 days over my mine until I researched it.

Day 1 and 2 – Localised short head pains/aches. Insect bite or cyst ‘like’ little lumps and bumps on middle forehead hairline which grew larger.
Day 3 – Right lymph gland swelling and general achiness, lethargy and washed out. One or two red lumps and bumps under right eyebrow.
Day 4 – More lumps and bumps in a patch on forehead, all lumps and bumps a bit sore, itchy, tingly. Still felt very peaky.
Went to the doc and got aciclovir
Day 5 – Stabbing, needling sensations all over affected areas. Some lumps and bumps starting to blister (but not all). Still felt peaky.
Day 6 – Meds started to kick in as lumps and bumps stopped getting worse and even started retracting. Sensations in head still occurring and gland still swollen. Felt better in my self.
Day 7 – Well and truly on the mend apart from some red blotches and itchiness.

I recommend anyone who feels like this go to the Doc and get the meds as soon as possible because it was good to get a diagnoses to put ones’ mind at rest and like the gentlman below they really helped.

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Dodsworg said on 05 December 2011

I just wanted to add something ‘positive’. Not to gloat, but when you first get something like shingles, all you appear to read is desperate stories which exacerbate the diagnosis. 40 year old male – I realized I had shingles (from this website) and got acyclovir within 72 hrs. This seems to have minimized the symptoms and bar a shocking 48 hours where I was permanently knackered with flu like feeling am, I think 10 days on, getting better – rash nearly gone and with a couple of paracetmol a day to get red of worst discomfort, hopefully not that far off normality. This hasnt been fun, but if you read this a few days in, it perhaps isnt always as horrific as some of the postings here

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me myself and I said on 16 October 2011

I am now experiencing my 5th occurence.I have not been diagnosed with shingles – i am being treated for a cold sore!!! prescribed aciclivor! The occurences are getting more frequent, in fact the last time I had an episode was only two weeks ago!! My rash is also on my right buttock. I have absoloutely no idea as to why this may be happening. It is helpful to know this I am not alone in this. What is everyone else being prescribed to combat this?

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Pavlova9 said on 06 October 2011

A week ago I went to my Dentist as I had clumps of blisters inside my mouth.He said I had a viral infection, and prescribed an antibiotic!(Not an anti viral). The pain and tingling was awful, and the blisters turned into revolting looking sores, and yesterday the left side of my face started swelling, with almost unbearable pain leading to my ear and side of head. I am tired out, cannot eat properly or sleep, and my left side of my top lip is so swollen with forming blisters, it looks like a botox in jection gone wrong! I had Shingles many years ago on my abdomen, but it was nowhere near as bad as in my mouth and on my face. I will not be going out at all, till the blisters and swelling have gone. I saw a Doctor today who prescribed Steroids, plus Aciclovir, which should have been prescribed within 72 hrs of the spots etc appearing. He hopes it will still work – so do I.This is so miserable. Most women panic if a single spot appears on their face. They ought to experience facial/oral shingles.Give me a spot any day.

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Annachadwick said on 20 September 2011

I went to my GP today and i have shiungles, i’m 14 years old and it’s horrible! sharp pains in the whole affected area, fever, headaches, and its so horrible , i’m in so much pain! got them on my birthday aswell:(

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austina40 said on 05 September 2011

It has been reassuring to read others experiences with shingles. I am in the middle of an outbreak at present. This is the 4th time I have had it. It has shown up at the back of both my thighs. In the past I’ve had it round my waist and on my buttocks too! – twice. I agree with DMN that if you have a susceptability to it then every time your are under the weather out it comes!! One of the things I find hard to cope with apart from the obvious pain and headaches is the tearfulness – does anyone else feel like this? I too like other sufferers get fed up when people say you can’t have it more than once and look doubtfully at you. Now through this site I realise I’m not alone and that in itself has made me feel better! So thank you to all my fellow ‘shinglelites’ for sharing your experiences and good luck against this pesky virus – each and every one of you! x

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wrecked said on 25 August 2011

I am now into my 5th week of suffering from shingles and I cannot see an end to this dreadful disease any time soon.I was misdiagnosed from the outset having visited a nurse,GP Hospital and back again.After 5 days of sheer agony in my groin area the pain travelled down my left leg and round my buttocks.I was then diagnosed.The rash has dried up but I am still very weak even after this amount of time.How long this will continue I have no idea but last night it was like I was right back at the beginning with the same pain (milder but enough to send me in a panic)I am almost 60 years old,have always had a bad diet due to stomach problems ie: PDU 20 odd years ago so my immune system is very low.I just want to get better but I feel as if I’m a little better one day and the next I am back to square on.When is this going to end?During the height of the virus I suffered from severe constipation (18 days)and this exacerbated the illness and my health to such a degree I contemplated committing suicide on a few occasions.I pray to God that this horrendous Virus disappears now as I’m at the end of my tether.I don’t want to take any other medication for this recurring pain because I believe the constipation has set me back so much I cannot see the light at the end of a huge tunnel..I feel as though I am being buried alive.Depression has set in and every day is getting harder to get up!I wouldn’t wish this terrible illness on my worst enemy.what a God awful disease.

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mich75 said on 24 May 2011

My mother in law is 80 and has never had chicken pox, my son has chicken pox and have been in contact with her , could she still get shingles seen she’s never had the chicken pox virus?

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robyn21 said on 27 February 2011

i have had shingles 4 times in the past year. it comes out in the exact same place everytime. (right buttock)
i notice it after stressful periods and being run down and ill. i find it very itchy and it burns. i am only 21 and cannot understand why it keeps happening. can anyone help?

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DMN said on 12 May 2010

Oh one more thing I forgot to mention… I have an under-active thyroid (take thyroxine daily) and have vitaligo – both of which are auto-immune disorders. I don’t know whether there’s a link at all? But I imagine I’m more susceptible.

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DMN said on 12 May 2010

This is now my third attack of shingles in 14 months (6th time in total) and I’m only 32! I truly believe that once you’ve had it (much like if you suffer from cold-sores around your mouth when you’re run down) that you’re more susceptible to getting it again. I find it annoying when you read info on the web about it, saying how rare it is to have it more than once. But I don’t think that’s the case at all. I think it’ll just keep rearing it’s ugly blistered head each time you feel a little under the weather or have an emotional encounter!

I must admit I’m my own worst enemy at times and worry and wittle over the silliest of things. I can get quite anxious and have a very small appetite (all self perpetuating I know!) So I guess it’s not surprising I suffer from Shingles.

So, like the lady in the video clip says, I think the only thing you can do is to keep your immune system in check and be happy!

I’m an exhausted mummy and make little time for myself. After this last bout I’m definately going to make sure that I eat better, make more time for myself, not get so stressed and perhaps take a vitamin supplement with Ginseng in it to boost my energy levels. I guess I’ll just have to live with the little blisters! At least when I do get them, they’re not so much painful but just incredibly itchy and more of a hindrance really. My other worry is that I’ll pass the virus onto my son (19 months) who’ll then get chicken pox and I’d hate to think I was responsible for him being poorly. But trying to look on the positive side, I guess it’s better he gets it now as it’ll be much milder than if he got it as an adult.

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Angelvoice said on 04 May 2010

My 5 year old son has shingles it would appear. At first I thought it was insect bites as the rash appeared like a small group of red raised bumps on his chest almost like slightly red goose bumps. As he had been playing on the school field that day I assumed an insect had got inside his shirt and bitten him.

I kept an eye on the rash over the following days. It did not spread but he was in tears at some points as it was itching and hurting so much. It then turned to flat scabs within about 5 days.

6 days after the first rash appeared he got a 2nd rash very close to the 1st appearing next to it on his chest. It was at this point I noticed 2 much smaller areas of rash on his back on the same side but slightly higher. It was at this point I called the doctors for an appointment.

2 days later we went to the GP’s. She was unsure of the diagnosis and called another doctor in to look for a 2nd opinion. They both then came to the conclusion that it was shingles although they had some doubts because of his young age and the fact that the spots on his back were slightly higher on his body than the ones on his chest as they are normally in a band around the body as the same nerve is effected.

I had been sending him to school all this time as I had no idea that it was shingles.

He has not had any other symptoms apart from the ithcy painful rash which he still has after 12 days. I am now convinced that it definitely is Shingles as my 2 year old is very out of sorts today and appears to be developing a chicken pox rash.

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JaneHemm said on 15 March 2010

I was diagnosed with Ramsay Huny Syndrome which is Shingles of the ear/mouth/face May 2009, this is quite a nasty very painful illness. It affects your hearing and causes Bells Palsy, I am still recovering from this but making good progress. I have about 90% of my movement back in the side of face that was affected. You need early diagnosis for a quicker recovery and need to get the correct medication as soon as possible within 72 hours. I was very fortunate and was diagnosed early. There is a Ramsay Hunt Web Site with a very helpful forum which gives lots and lots of good advice and names a lot of the medication that is recommended. Also it advises that you see and ear nose and throat and eye specialist to monitor your hearing and your eye if this is affected. The specialists that I saw were fantastic and very sympathitic as was my GP as this kind of shingles can be very distressing and extremely painful. It also causes severe fatigue I was off work for 4 months and it is just a matter of rest, rest and more rest, and I have my fingers crossed that it does not re-appear!!!!!!

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dawn0478 said on 02 March 2010

I would love to know how many times overall the lady in the video has suffered from shingles. I am currently suffering from my 12th attack in less than 3 years! This is not something I want to learn to live with! My GP is not sure why I suffer so frequently and also she is not sure who to refer me onto. In the past I have taken acilorvir for long periods of time and still they keep coming back, even while I am taking the medication! Very fustrated and at the end of my tether, people look at me like I am some sort of freak when they discover how many times I have had it or even worse they assume I am lying which is even more fustrating.

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dawn0478 said on 02 March 2010

I would love to know how many times overall the lady in the video has suffered from shingles. I am currently suffering from my 12th attack in less than 3 years! This is not something I want to learn to live with! My GP is not sure why I suffer so frequently and also she is not sure who to refer me onto. In the past I have taken acilorvir for long periods of time and still they keep coming back, even while I am taking the medication! Very fustrated and at the end of my tether, people look at me like I am some sort of freak when they discover how many times I have had it or even worse they assume I am lying which is even more fustrating.

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bw59 said on 31 January 2010

I have had 4 outbreaks of shingles since July 09. The last 3 since beginning of Dec. Each outbreak is mild and in the same area (left buttock). The pain is mild and is causing discomfort, but is not debilitating. Am wondering why I am having recurrences. My immune system perhaps?

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littleva said on 12 January 2010

I have had Shingles three times to date. I have it on my face at the moment, but had it on my head many years ago. That was so painful, thought I had a brain tunour. Went to A&E & they said I had a migraine headache. When I went to my GP following morning, he diagnosed Shingles. It does occur when I have been ill & more so when I have had a stressful period. I guess keeping your immune system in check must be the answer.

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ega95jch said on 10 January 2010

My understanding is that shingles only occurs once for the vast majority of people. Joanne’s video gives the misleading impression that shingles will necessarily reoccur and will need ‘managing’ and ‘living with’.

Am I mistaken?

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lana92 said on 04 January 2010

is it normal to get shingles when you are about 14?

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elephants57 said on 17 December 2009

i have had shingles for two weeks now .its very sore and i cant sleep still have the rash i just wish it would go away so i can get back to the gym.what can i do to build my immunie system back up again

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Redden said on 26 May 2009

Last year i suffered from shingles and this was when I was 14. My GP told me that when you are younger, it is not as painful and you may recover from it quicker.
The pain itself wasn’t that bad unless I touched it or if it rubbed against a surface. I wasn’t physically sick, but I’m an active person and for the week I had shingles, I struggled to move and just felt weak. It’s not a pleasant thing to get at any age.

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Shingles vaccination

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Shingles – Causes – NHS Choices

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Shingles – Causes 

Causes of shingles 

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the virus that causes chickenpox.

After you have had chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus lies dormant (inactive) inside your body. It can become reactivated at a later stage and cause shingles.

It is not known exactly why the virus is reactivated, but it is linked to having lowered immunity (protection against infection and diseases).

Your immunity to illness and infection can become lowered if there is a problem with your immune system (the body’s natural defence system). This can happen as a result of:

  • old age – as you age, your immunity may decrease, and shingles most commonly occurs in people over 70 years old
  • physical and emotional stress – the chemicals released by your body when you are stressed can prevent your immune system working properly
  • HIV and AIDS – people with HIV are much more likely to get shingles than the rest of the population because their immune system is weak
  • recently having a bone marrow transplant – the conditioning you require before the transplant will weaken your immune system
  • recently having an organ transplant – you may need to take medication to suppress your immune system so your body accepts the donated organ
  • chemotherapy – chemotherapy medication, often used to treat cancer, can temporarily weaken your immune system

However, young people who appear otherwise healthy can also sometimes develop shingles.

Is shingles contagious?

It is not possible to catch shingles from someone else with the condition, or from someone with chickenpox.

However, it is possible for someone who has never had chickenpox to catch it from someone with shingles, as the shingles blisters contains the live virus.

In the UK, chickenpox is so common during childhood that 9 out of 10 adults have already had it and will not be at risk from someone with shingles.

Catching chickenpox

The blisters that develop as a result of shingles contain virus particles. If you have not had chickenpox before, you can catch it from direct contact with the fluid from the blisters of someone who has shingles, or from something that has the fluid on it, such as bed sheets or a towel.

If you have shingles, you are contagious until the last blister has scabbed over. This will usually occur after about 10 to 14 days.

Preventing the virus spreading

If you have the shingles rash, do not share towels or flannels, go swimming, or play contact sports. This will help prevent the virus being passed on to someone who has not had chickenpox.

You should also avoid work or school if your rash is weeping (oozing fluid) and cannot be covered.

Chickenpox can be particularly dangerous for certain groups of people. If you have shingles, avoid:

  • women who are pregnant and have not had chickenpox before as they could catch it from you, which may harm their unborn baby
  • people who have a weak immune system, such as someone with HIV or AIDS
  • babies less than one month old, unless it is your own baby, in which case your baby should have antibodies (proteins that fight infection) to protect them from the virus

Once your blisters have dried and scabbed over, you are no longer contagious and will not need to avoid anyone.

Page last reviewed: 25/06/2014

Next review due: 25/06/2016

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Infections in pregnancy

How to protect against infections that might affect your baby, such as CMV, toxoplasmosis and rubella


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NHS Choices Syndication

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 /conditions/articles/shingles/mapofmedicinepage

Shingles

See what the doctor sees with Map of Medicine

The Map of Medicine is used by doctors throughout the NHS to determine the best treatment options for their patients. NHS Choices offers everyone in England exclusive and free access to this cutting-edge internet resource, which lets you see exactly what your doctor sees.

The information in the Map has been approved by the UK’s leading clinical experts, is based on the best available clinical evidence, and is continually updated. To take advantage of this unique resource go to:

Map of Medicine: shingles

Published Date
2014-06-25 12:15:00Z
Last Review Date
2010-06-21 00:00:00Z
Next Review Date
2012-06-21 00:00:00Z
Classification
Shingles


NHS Choices Syndication

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Shingles

Symptoms of shingles

An episode of shingles typically lasts around two to four weeks. The main symptoms are pain, followed by a rash.

Any part of your body can be affected, including your face and eyes, although the chest and abdomen (tummy) are the most common areas where shingles develops.

Early symptoms

In some cases, shingles may cause some early (prodromal) symptoms that develop a few days before the painful rash first appears. These early symptoms can include:

  • headache
  • burning, tingling, numbness or itchiness of the skin in the affected area
  • a feeling of being generally unwell
  • a high temperature (fever)

Not everyone will experience these prodromal symptoms. A high temperature is particularly uncommon.

Pain

Eventually, most people with shingles experience a localised “band” of pain in the affected area.

The pain can be a constant, dull or burning sensation and its intensity can vary from mild to severe. You may have sharp stabbing pains from time to time, and the affected area of skin will usually be tender.

Pain is less common in young healthy people and is rare in children. It usually starts a few days before the rash appears and can remain for a few days or weeks after the rash has healed.

Rash

The shingles rash usually appears on one side of your body and develops on the area of skin related to the affected nerve.

Initially, the shingles rash appears as red blotches on your skin before developing into itchy blisters similar in appearance to chickenpox.

New blisters may appear for up to a week, but a few days after appearing they become yellowish in colour, flatten and dry out.

Scabs then form where the blisters were, which may leave some slight scarring. It usually takes two to four weeks for the rash to heal completely.

When to seek medical advice

Shingles is not usually serious, but you should see your GP as soon as possible if you recognise the symptoms. Early treatment may help reduce the severity of your symptoms and the risk of developing complications.

You should also see your GP if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system (the body’s natural defence system) and you think you have been exposed to someone with chickenpox or shingles and haven’t had chickenpox before.

Published Date
2014-07-10 10:07:32Z
Last Review Date
2014-06-24 00:00:00Z
Next Review Date
2016-06-24 00:00:00Z
Classification
Aches, pains and soreness,Shingles


NHS Choices Syndication

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Shingles

Treating shingles

There is no cure for shingles, but treatment can help ease your symptoms until the condition improves. In many cases, shingles gets better within around two to four weeks.

However, it’s still important to see your GP as soon as possible if you recognise the symptoms of shingles, as early treatment may help reduce the severity of the condition and the risk of potential complications.

Self-care

If you develop the shingles rash, there are a number of things you can do to help relieve your symptoms, such as:

  • keeping the rash as clean and dry as possible – this will reduce the risk of the rash becoming infected with bacteria
  • wearing loose-fitting clothing – this may help you feel more comfortable
  • not using topical (rub-on) antibiotics or adhesive dressings such as plasters – this can slow down the healing process
  • using a non-adherent dressing (a dressing that will not stick to the rash) if you need to cover the blisters – this avoids passing the virus to anyone else

Calamine lotion has a soothing, cooling effect on the skin and can be used to relieve the itching.

If you have any weeping blisters, you can use a cool compress (a cloth or a flannel cooled with tap water) several times a day to help soothe the skin and keep blisters clean.

It’s important to only use the compress for around 20 minutes at a time and stop using them once the blisters stop oozing. Don’t share any cloths, towels or flannels if you have the shingles rash. 

Antiviral medication

As well as painkilling medication, some people with shingles may also be prescribed a course of antiviral tablets lasting 7 to 10 days. Commonly prescribed antiviral medicines include aciclovir, valaciclovir and famciclovir.

These medications cannot kill the shingles virus, but can help stop it multiplying. This may:

Antiviral medicines are most effective when taken within 72 hours of your rash appearing, although they may be started up to a week after your rash appears if you are at risk of severe shingles or developing complications.

Side effects of antiviral medication are very uncommon, but can include:

Who may be prescribed antiviral medication?

If you are over 50 years of age and have symptoms of shingles, it is likely you will be prescribed an antiviral medication.

You may also be prescribed antiviral medication if you have:

  • shingles that affects one of your eyes
  • a weakened immune system
  • moderate to severe pain
  • a moderate to severe rash

Pregnancy and antiviral medication

If you are pregnant and have shingles, it is likely your GP will discuss your case with a specialist to decide whether the benefits of antiviral medication significantly outweigh any possible risks. Shingles will not harm your unborn baby.

If you are under 50 years of age, you are at less risk of developing complications from shingles anyway, so you may not need antiviral medication.

Children and antiviral medication

Antiviral medication is not usually necessary for otherwise healthy children because they usually only experience mild symptoms of shingles and have a small risk of developing complications.

However, if your child has a weakened immune system, they may need to be admitted to hospital to receive antiviral medication directly into a vein (intravenously).

Painkilling medication

To ease the pain caused by shingles, your GP may recommend painkilling medication. Some of the main medications used to relieve pain associated with shingles are described below.

Paracetamol

The most commonly used painkiller is paracetamol, which is available without a prescription. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure the medicine is suitable and you are taking the correct dose.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are an alternative type of painkilling medicine also available without a prescription.

However, NSAIDs may not be suitable if you:

  • have stomach, liver or kidney problems, such as a stomach ulcer, or had them in the past
  • have asthma
  • are pregnant or breastfeeding

Ask your GP or pharmacist if you are unsure about whether you should take NSAIDs. 

Opioids

For more severe pain, your GP may prescribe an opioid, such as codeine. This is a stronger type of painkiller sometimes prescribed alongside paracetamol.

Occasionally, your GP may consider seeking specialist advice before prescribing an even stronger opioid, such as morphine.

Antidepressants

If you have severe pain as a result of shingles, you may be prescribed an antidepressant medicine. These medications are commonly used to treat depression, but they have also proven to be useful in relieving nerve pain, such as the pain associated with shingles.

The antidepressants most often used to treat shingles pain are known as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Examples of TCAs most commonly prescribed for people with shingles are amitriptyline, imipramine and nortriptyline.

Side effects of TCAs can include:

If you have shingles, you will usually be prescribed a much lower dose of TCAs than if you were being treated for depression. This will usually be a tablet to take at night. Your dose may be increased until your pain settles down.

It may take several weeks before you start to feel the antidepressants working, although this is not always the case.

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants are most commonly used to control seizures (fits) caused by epilepsy, but they are also useful in relieving nerve pain.

Gabapentin and pregabalin are the most commonly prescribed anticonvulsants for shingles pain.

Side effects of these medications can include:

  • dizziness
  • drowsiness
  • increased appetite
  • weight gain
  • feeling sick
  • vomiting

As with antidepressants, you may need to take anticonvulsants for several weeks before you notice it working.

If your pain does not improve, your dose may be gradually increased until your symptoms are effectively managed.

Published Date
2014-07-10 09:41:49Z
Last Review Date
2014-06-24 00:00:00Z
Next Review Date
2016-06-24 00:00:00Z
Classification
Aches, pains and soreness,Anticonvulsants,Antidepressants,Antiviral drugs,Nerve pain,NSAIDs,Opioids,Painkillers,Paracetamol,Shingles

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