Loose Women: Eamonn Holmes discusses his issues with shingles
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Symptomatic shingles includes tingling skin, headaches, feeling unwell, and a painful rash – usually on the chest and stomach, the NHS confirmed. While the rash develops on one side of the body, with the face and genitals not immune, the blotches become itchy blisters. When the blisters burst and ooze, the virus can be passed on to others.
The national health service warned that shingles must not be treated with an antibiotic cream.
As a viral infection, the application of antibiotic cream on the rash will only prolong the discomfort.
“This slows healing,” the NHS pointed out, adding that you must not let dressing or plasters stick to the rash.
In order to manage the symptoms of shingles, you are advised to “keep the rash clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection”.
It will help to wear “loose-fitting clothing” and to take paracetamol.
The use of a cool compress on top of the rash, multiple times throughout the day, is recommended.
An example includes the use of a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel or wet cloth.
Although lengthy, the rash can take up to four weeks to completely heal.
Not only that, skin can continue to feel tender after the rash has cleared up.
While the pain usually gets better over time, complications can arise.
For instance, experts at the Mayo Clinic pointed out that “postherpetic neuralgia” can develop.
This is when “damaged nerve fibres send confused and exaggerated messages of pain from your skin to your brain”.
Consequently, the pain felt from shingles continues to linger long after the blisters have cleared.
Another complication is ophthalmic shingles, which causes painful eye infections that may result in vision loss.
Shingles may also lead to inflammation of the brain, facial paralysis, and balance issues.
Such risks can be minimised if you contact NHS 111 as soon as you suspect shingles.
Medical professionals might offer medication to help speed up recovery and to minimise the risk of long-term complications.
“This works best if taken within three days of your symptoms starting,” the NHS stated.
Thus, time really is of the essence – call NHS 111 now if you have signs of shingles.
Alternatively, you can ring your GP surgery and request an urgent appointment.
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