Shingles questions

[didiimaginethis]

I am just getting over shingles - developed a rash that turned into blisters on 30th Dec and managed to get anti viral drugs on 1st Jan. The rash is on my face and has been very annoying in its tingling, itching and some shooting pains. However, it's starting to scab over now.

What I wanted to know, if anyone here has had shingles, how long before you felt properly better? I'm up and about, pottering around the house, helping with the children (my partner and both children had covid over Christmas!). But I feel tired, listless and most worrying of all, really tearful. I know I still need to heal and rest is important but I'm getting really fed up.

Worst of all I haven't been sleeping well as brushing my face on the pillow or duvet has been really painful. I never thought i would get shingles this young (im in my 40s).

Just a rant really but if anyone who has had shingles can share their experience I'd love to hear it.

Hi@didiimaginethis
Shingles is no way to start the new year! I'm sorry you're still feeling ill.
It should clear in 10 to 14 days. Did you get topical aciclovir also? If not, I suggest getting a tube or two at Boots or Tesco..no prescription needed, and follow the directions on the tube, ( it's kind of expensive for such a teeny tiny 2gm tube, about £4).. it will help to soothe the sores. I've also found that if I feel a tingling coming on at the breakout site in the future, putting the aciclovir ointment (or cream) and taking the oral medication helps to stop the outbreak or at least lessens it. The initial outbreak is always the worst so if you do have another outbreak at a later date, it shouldn't be as severe.

It is extremely contagious when the blisters are producing exudate, so please make sure to keep that in mind.
Stress is usually a factor of an outbreak...which is exactly your situation with family having covid, especially around the holidays. Do take it easy so you can rebuild your immune system, if possible. I hope you feel better soon.💐

>>> tube says not to put on eyes, nose, or mouth>>>
Also, you may want to check with your GP to get an okay for you.

@didiimaginethis
I forgot to add, i hope you are in Britain..aciclovir is very, very expensive in the US because it is by prescription only at over $300 a tube!

Thanks Sweetpea, I was recommended the cold sore cream by a pharmacist and was using that while they were oozing. I am in the UK and got my meds from urgent care who were amazing - brilliant NHS!

Oh that's good to hear@didiimaginethis !

I can't answer your question, because it's different for everyone, but regarding age, 40s isn't young to get shingles. I had it when I was 17, though it was mild, but a relative not much older than me had it really badly!

I hope you soon feel better