If I suspect an outbreak of shingles, how soon should I start treatment?

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

Shingles is a virus that causes pain, itching, skin blisters, and other unpleasant symptoms. If you suspect that you have shingles, see your doctor right away. It's best to receive medication within three days of the first appearance of a shingles-related rash on your skin. That will help to control symptoms and reduce how long you will suffer with a shingles outbreak. Prompt treatment also lowers your risk for something called post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). PHN causes burning and itching that can last for months after a shingles rash has disappeared.

Talk with your doctor about the causes of and treatments for shingles.

Continue Learning about Shingles Treatment

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Shingles Treatment

Shingles, also called herpes zoster, is a nerve inflammation caused by a reawakened chickenpox virus. (Once you've had chickenpox, the virus lurks, dormant, in your body). Treatment of the painful rash or blisters caused by shingles can include cold compresses, over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or doctor-prescribed antiviral and steroidal medications. Experts recommend seeking treatment for shingles as soon as possible; its best to receive medication within the three days of the first shingles rash.

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