Shingles Treatment in Singapore
Fast Relief & Prevention of Complications from Shingles
What is Shingles?
Shingles, also known as Herpes Zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox).
After recovering from chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus can stay dormant in your nerve roots. Years later, the virus can reactivate, leading to shingles. It usually affects older adults, but can occur at any age in those with weakened immunity.
Typical features include:
- Pain, burning, itching or tingling in one area (often before the rash appears)
- Red patches followed by fluid-filled blisters on one side of the body or face
- Rash usually forms a stripe or band pattern along an area of skin supplied by one nerve root (dermatome)
- Blisters that crust over in 7–10 days and heal within 2–4 weeks
At Regis Medical GP clinic, we provide timely diagnosis, effective antiviral treatment, and long-term preventive care to reduce pain and avoid complications.
What Causes Shingles?
Shingles occurs when the varicella-zoster virus, which remains in the body after chickenpox, reactivates years later. The exact trigger is not always clear, but several factors increase the risk:
Ageing: Weakened immunity with age makes reactivation more likely (common over 50).
Weakened immune system: Due to illness (HIV, cancer), medications (chemotherapy, steroids), or chronic conditions.
Stress & fatigue: High stress can reduce the body’s immune defenses.
Physical trauma or surgery: May sometimes trigger viral reactivation along affected nerves.
History of chickenpox: Anyone who has had chickenpox carries the virus, even if the infection was mild or decades ago.
Shingles is not caused by a new infection but by the reactivation of a virus you already have.
Common Symptoms of Shingles
Symptoms often start with nerve pain and progress to skin changes:
- Localised burning, stabbing, or tingling pain
- Itchy, red rash developing into blisters
- Sensitivity to touch in the affected area (Touch Allodynia)
- Fever, fatigue, or headache in some cases
- Severe nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia) that may persist after the rash heals
Why Shingles Treatment is Important?
Shingles can be extremely painful and, if untreated, may lead to long-lasting nerve damage or complications. Prompt treatment:
- Reduces pain severity and duration
- Shortens recovery time
- Prevents complications such as postherpetic neuralgia (persistent nerve pain), vision loss (if shingles affects the eye), or bacterial skin infections
- Protects vulnerable individuals by reducing risk of spreading the virus to those who haven’t had chickenpox or vaccination
Shingles Treatment Options at Our Clinic
Early treatment (ideally within 72 hours of rash onset) is key for best results. We provide:
Antiviral medications – Such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir to control viral replication and speed healing
Pain relief – Options include anti-inflammatory medication, neuropathic pain relievers, or topical creams
Skin care guidance – Keeping the rash clean and covered to prevent infection and reduce discomfort
Follow-up care – Monitoring healing and managing complications if they occur
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*Prices listed were last updated on 1 July 2023. Prices may be subject to change.
*Price does not include consultation fee and GST.
Preventing Future Shingles
The best way to prevent shingles is through vaccination.
- Shingles vaccine (e.g., Shingrix®) is recommended for adults over 50 and those with weakened immunity.
- Vaccination reduces the risk of developing shingles and lowers the chance of postherpetic neuralgia if shingles occurs.
- Our clinic provides vaccination after a consultation to assess suitability.
Why Choose Regis Medical
Book Your Shingles Consultation
Don’t wait with burning pain or rash, early treatment makes all the difference. Protect yourself from long-term complications and get relief today.
Finding Us
Holland Village
255 Holland Ave, Singapore 278983
Near MRT Exit B
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:
8.30am - 2.30pm
5.30pm - 10.00pm
Wed:
8.30am - 2.30pm
Sat:
9.00am - 3.00pm
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.
** GP registration ends 15 mins before the closing time above, while Physiotherapy & Acupuncture end registration 45 mins before. Please book an appointment in advance to avoid queues and disappointment.
Katong
437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650
Near Marine Parade MRT
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:
8.30am - 2.30pm
5.30pm - 10.00pm
Wed:
8.30am - 2.30pm
Sat:
9.00am - 3.00pm
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.
** GP registration ends 15 mins before the closing time above, while Physiotherapy & Acupuncture end registration 45 mins before. Please book an appointment in advance to avoid queues and disappointment.
FAQ
Accessibility & Support
Regis Medical Holland Village is located at 255 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278983
Regis Medical Katong is located at 437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650
Click here to view our opening hoursAppointment
To book an appointment at Regis Medical Holland Village, please call or whatsapp us 8118 5298
To book an appointment at Regis Medical Katong, please call or whatsapp us 9851 3728
You can only cancel or change your appointments up to 24 hours before your appointment. You will receive your refund within 3 working days. No refund will be issued for no shows and cancellations within 24 hours before your appointment. However, if you are feeling unwell on the day of the appointment, we allow patients who have their acute illness seen at Regis Medical to reschedule their appointment without extra cost.
This policy is subject to change.
Yes. You can reschedule your appointments. However, you need to reschedule your appointment at least 24 hours before your actual appointment time. If you are unwell on the day of the appointment, we will reschedule your appointment at no extra cost if you seek medical attention at our clinic (for non-emergencies only).
Finance
General
Shingles (Herpes Zoster) is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. It usually presents as a painful, blistering rash on one side of the body or face, often accompanied by burning or tingling sensations before the rash appears.
Shingles symptoms can include:
- Pain, burning, or tingling in a specific area
- Red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters
- Itching or sensitivity to touch
- Headache, fever, or fatigue
- Pain persisting even after the rash heals (post-herpetic neuralgia)
Our Doctor can usually diagnose shingles through a physical examination of the rash and a review of your symptoms. In uncertain cases, a viral swab or blood test may be ordered for confirmation.
Treatment options include:
- Antiviral medication (most effective if started within 72 hours of rash onset)
- Pain relief with anti-inflammatory or neuropathic pain medications
- Topical creams or soothing dressings for rash relief
- Referral to a specialist if complications arise
Yes. Vaccination with the shingles vaccine reduces the risk of developing shingles and post-herpetic neuralgia. It is especially recommended for adults over 50 years old or those with weakened immune systems.
Shingles itself cannot be passed from one person to another. However, the varicella-zoster virus can spread from the fluid in shingles blisters, potentially causing chickenpox in someone who has never had chickenpox or the vaccine. Covering the rash helps reduce the risk of transmission.
You should seek medical attention as soon as you notice a painful rash or blisters, especially if:
- The rash is near your eyes or face (can cause vision loss)
- You are over 50 years old
- You have a weakened immune system
- You experience severe pain, fever, or widespread rash