Shingles Treatment

What is it?

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate years later, causing a painful, blistering rash. Shingles can be serious and debilitating, especially in older adults, but early treatment can reduce complications and speed healing.

Common Symptoms

Shingles often begins with tingling, burning, or pain in a specific area on one side of the body or face. Within a few days, a red rash with fluid-filled blisters appears. Symptoms may also include fever, fatigue, sensitivity to touch, and headache. Pain can persist even after the rash heals—a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia.

What Causes It?

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which remains in the body after chickenpox. It can be triggered by aging, stress, a weakened immune system, or certain medical treatments. While not contagious in the same way as chickenpox, the virus can be passed to someone who’s never had chickenpox or the vaccine.

What to Expect During a Telehealth Visit for Shingles:

Your provider will assess your symptoms, medical history, and the appearance or location of any rash to determine if you have shingles.
They’ll explain how the virus works and how to reduce your risk of complications.
If diagnosed early (within 72 hours of rash onset), you may receive a same-day prescription for antiviral medication.
Pain relief strategies will also be discussed, including over-the-counter or prescription options.
If your symptoms are advanced or affect your vision or hearing, you may be referred for in-person care.

How to Treat Shingles

Shingles treatment focuses on reducing the duration and severity of the infection and managing pain. Antiviral medications are most effective when started within 72 hours of symptom onset.

Start Antivirals Early: Prescription medications like valacyclovir or acyclovir can shorten recovery and reduce complications.
Use Pain Relief: OTC painkillers or prescription nerve pain medications may be recommended.
Soothe the Rash: Apply cool, wet compresses to reduce itching and inflammation.
Keep Area Clean: Gently wash the affected area with mild soap and water. Avoid scratching.
Limit Contact: Until blisters dry, avoid pregnant individuals, newborns, and those with weak immune systems.

When Should I Go to Urgent Care or the ER?

Seek urgent care if your shingles rash is near the eyes, ears, or genitals—or if you have severe pain and can’t access care right away. Go to the ER if you experience vision changes, confusion, difficulty walking, or weakness on one side of the body. These symptoms may indicate complications involving the nervous system and require immediate attention.

Most shingles cases can be managed via telehealth, but some require urgent or emergency care.

Eye Involvement: If the rash appears near the eye or forehead, urgent evaluation is critical to prevent vision loss.
Hearing Loss: Facial rash with ear pain or ringing in the ears could be Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.
Widespread Rash: May suggest a weakened immune system or more serious infection.
Fever or Confusion: Could indicate systemic involvement or neurological complications.

Get care fast to prevent long-term nerve damage or postherpetic neuralgia.

How to Prevent Future Flare-Ups?

The shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is the most effective way to prevent future outbreaks and reduce the risk of complications. It’s recommended for adults over 50 and those with weakened immune systems. Managing stress, supporting your immune system with sleep and nutrition, and avoiding contact with those experiencing active outbreaks also help reduce risk.

Your nervous system impacts your pain, energy, and focus—shingles starts from within.

How It Works

1. Purchase Your Visit

Add your visit to the cart and complete your purchase—it only takes a few minutes. Once paid, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your next steps.

2. Register and Book Your Appointment

You’ll be invited to register in our secure patient portal. Once inside, you’ll be prompted to schedule your appointment. After booking, check your email for the required medical forms—these must be completed and signed before your visit.

3. Meet With a Doctor and Get Treated

On the day of your appointment, you’ll connect with a board-certified doctor by video. Prescriptions or treatments—if needed—will be sent to your preferred pharmacy or shipped directly to you.

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