Overview
Shingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus. It usually affects one side of the body or face and can lead to lasting nerve pain, especially in older adults.
How common is it?
Shingles is common and becomes more likely with age. It can also happen in younger people, especially if the immune system is weakened.
Causes and risk factors
After chickenpox, the virus stays in the body and can become active again later. The risk rises with age and with conditions or medicines that weaken the immune system.
Common risk factors
- Older age
- A weakened immune system
- Cancer treatment or other immune-suppressing medicines
- Having had chickenpox in the past
Symptoms
- Pain, tingling, or itching before the rash appears
- A blistering rash on one side of the body or face
- Blisters that scab over in about 7 to 10 days
- Rash and discomfort that can last 2 to 4 weeks
- Pain that continues after the rash has healed
- Eye symptoms if the rash is near the eye
When to see a doctor
Get medical advice as soon as possible if you think you have shingles. Same-day advice is especially important if the rash is on the face, near the eye, on the tip of the nose, if the pain is severe, if you are pregnant, or if you have a weakened immune system. Antiviral treatment works best when started early.
Diagnosis
Shingles is usually diagnosed from the typical one-sided blistering rash and the symptoms that came before it. Tests are only sometimes needed if the rash is unusual or the diagnosis is uncertain.
Treatments
Antiviral medicine
Antiviral tablets can shorten illness and reduce complications, especially when started early after the rash begins.
Pain relief
Pain relief may include paracetamol, ibuprofen if suitable, and sometimes stronger treatment if the pain is severe or lingers.
Skin care and specialist review
Keeping the rash clean and dry can help. Shingles affecting the eye or ear may need specialist treatment.
Self-care and lifestyle
- Keep the rash clean and loosely covered
- Do not scratch or pick the blisters
- Avoid close contact with pregnant people who have not had chickenpox, newborn babies, and people with weakened immune systems until the blisters have crusted over
- Rest if you feel unwell
Prevention
A shingles vaccine is available on the NHS for eligible older adults and some younger people with a severely weakened immune system. Vaccination can reduce the risk of shingles and make illness milder if it does happen.
Sources and review
Last reviewed: 20 July 2026 by Living Diabetes Editorial Team. This guide was checked against current patient and professional guidance. It is educational and does not replace care from your own healthcare team.