Shingles: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services for new confusion, fainting, severe weakness, difficulty walking, a seizure, a very severe headache with neck stiffness, or trouble breathing.

   These symptoms are uncommon but may suggest a complication requiring immediate care.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek prompt medical advice when you first suspect shingles, especially within the first few days of the rash.

   Early treatment may shorten the episode and reduce complications.

   Arrange urgent, same-day assessment if:

   • The rash is on your forehead, eyelid, nose, or around an eye
   • You have eye pain, a red eye, blurred vision, or light sensitivity
   • Blisters or pain affect an ear, or you develop facial weakness
   • You are pregnant
   • Your immune system is weakened by a condition or treatment
   • The rash is widespread or affects more than one area
   • Pain is severe or difficult to control
   • The skin becomes increasingly red, swollen, warm, or produces pus
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   For routine follow-up, seek advice if the rash is not healing, symptoms are worsening, or pain continues after the blisters have cleared.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Shingles. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.