Shingles is an infection that produces a painful rash on the body and is caused by the chickenpox virus, according to the NHS.
It is common to get the shingles rash on the chest or abdomen but it can appear anywhere on the body including the face, eyes and genitals, the health service said.
According to the Shingles Support Society (SSS), red patches are usually the first sign of the rash appearing but there may also be itching, tingling or burning under the skin, pain around the area and “fluid-filled blisters” that burst and turn into sores before they dry out.
Around 194,000 people in England and Wales get shingles every year, the SSS website said.
The charity added: “We call it chickenpox when we first catch it.
“The virus hides away in the body and can appear again at any age. When this happens, we call it shingles.
“This can be at any age but it is more likely to occur as we get older.”
The rash can take up to five weeks to heal.
People are urged to call 111 or visit the doctor as soon as they suspect shingles as they might need medication.
For treating shingles at home, the NHS website advises taking paracetamol, keeping the rash clean and dry, wearing loose-fitting clothes and using a cool compress a few times a day.
It warns against letting dressings or plasters stick to the rash or using antibiotic cream.
The health service also urges those infected to stay away from certain groups of people to avoid spreading chickenpox, including pregnant people who have not had chickenpox before, people with a weakened immune system and babies less than one month old.
A vaccination is available on the NHS for people in their 70s.
What are the symptoms of Shingles
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. The symptoms of shingles can vary from person to person, but typically include:
Rash: Shingles often presents as a rash that appears as a band or strip of red, blistered skin, usually on one side of the body or face. The rash can be painful and it may itch.
Pain: Pain is a common symptom of shingles and can be severe. The pain can be described as burning, tingling, or shooting and may be localized to the area where the rash appears.
Sensitivity to touch: The skin affected by the shingles rash may be sensitive to touch, and even light touch or pressure can cause pain.
Blistering: The rash may develop into fluid-filled blisters that can break open and crust over. The blisters are usually limited to the area where the rash appears and do not cross the midline of the body.
Itching: Some people with shingles may experience itching or tingling before the rash appears.
Flu-like symptoms: In some cases, people with shingles may also experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and chills.
Nerve-related symptoms: Shingles can affect the nerves, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the area where the rash appears.
It's important to note that shingles can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, and if you suspect you may have shingles, it's important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
