Touchwood Pharmacy

Caused by the same virus as chickenpox , shingles is a common condition that affects mainly older adults. It’s a viral infection that causes a painful rash that can appear anywhere on your body. Shingles is usually not a serious condition for adults who are generally healthy, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t risks. Left untreated, shingles can cause life-threatening complications and even death. How Dangerous are Shingles? Most people who contract the shingles virus will recover without any complications. With treatment, the uncomfortable symptoms of shingles should clear up within 2-4 weeks. Left untreated, severe cases of shingles can become very serious. Antiviral medication is usually the first course of treatment given when you’re diagnosed with shingles. Some groups are more likely to experience complications from shingles, including:   People over the age of 65 People with autoimmune diseases Pregnant women Those undergoing cancer treatment Sh...

When you have allergies, it can be difficult to go about your day to day life. From sniffles, itchy eyes, to trouble breathing, allergies can cause several uncomfortable symptoms. For some people allergies can even be dangerous if an allergic reaction isn’t treated right away. That’s why it’s so important to know how to not only treat your allergies , but how to avoid exposure to your triggers. The less often you’re exposed to your triggers, the less likely you’ll be to experience a reaction. Tips for Avoiding Allergens Depending on the type and severity of your allergy, it may be difficult to consistently avoid your allergens. Having an allergy management plan in place can help you to prevent allergic reactions and keep your symptoms in check. These are just general guidelines since each allergy is different. You can consult with your GP or one of our pharmacists to develop a personalised plan that will work for you. Some tips to controlling your allergies include: Avoid...