PMR and shingles

[Harrywogan]

Just wondering if you should see GP Wright away for antiviral meds if you have shingles and PMR,thanks so much xx

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Yes for sure,.

Antiviral treatment should be started as soon as possible, as it is most effective when started within 72 hours after the shingles rash appears. After this time, antiviral medications may still be helpful if new blisters are appearing.

[Harrywogan in reply to DorsetLady]

Thanks Dl thought so xx

[Grammy80]

Oh, I had those darn shingles. Hope you can get antiviral treatment soon and my doctor also prescribed Lidocaine lotion which did a great job relieving itching ...they were all over the right side of my face. Heartfelt wishes...💞

[York54]

Morning Harry , I had shingles last year and had the antivirals same day as rash appeared.

[Poshcards]

I wasn't aware there were any 'anti virla' for shingles! x

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Poshcards]

They should be started with 24-48 hours of symptoms appearing for best results but are often worth starting anyway

nhsinform.scot/illnesses-an....

"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:

- reduce the severity of your shingles

- reduce how long your shingles lasts

- prevent complications of shingles, such as postherpetic neuralgia (although the evidence for this is uncertain)

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."

[Poshcards]

hi, many thanks for this, I honestly didn't know about any of it and I have just had my Shingrix jab no 1, my GP's know i am immunosuppressed too ! x