Shingles treatment online

Shingles is caused by the chickenpox virus waking up years later. It often starts with burning, tingling or pain in one area, followed a few days later by a rash:

• A stripe or band of red rash on one side of the body or face
• Clusters of fluid-filled blisters that crust over in 7 to 10 days
• Pain, itching or sensitivity to touch, sometimes with fever and tiredness

On video your provider can usually recognize shingles from the rash and your symptoms. Antiviral medicine started within about 72 hours of the rash appearing can shorten the illness and may lower the risk of long-lasting nerve pain. Your provider will also help with pain relief and skin care.

Shingles is not spread through the air, but fluid from the blisters can give chickenpox to people who never had it or the vaccine – keep the rash covered and avoid pregnant women and newborns until it crusts. Once you have recovered, ask about the shingles vaccine.

• Valacyclovir, acyclovir or famciclovir – antivirals, best started within about 72 hours
• Pain relief, and medicine for nerve pain when needed

Only when it is right for you: your provider checks your symptoms, allergies, other medicines and health history first. Prescriptions go to the pharmacy you choose.

• Keep the rash clean and covered
• Cool, wet compresses
• Loose clothing
• Avoid pregnant women and babies until it crusts over

• A rash on the face near the eye, the tip of the nose, or any eye pain or vision changes
• A weakened immune system, or a rash spreading widely over the body
• High fever, severe headache, confusion or weakness
• Signs of skin infection: spreading redness, warmth or pus

A virtual visit is not an emergency service. For chest pain, trouble breathing, severe bleeding, signs of a stroke or a serious injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If you are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) at any time.

See a licensed provider by video or phone for these too.