'Side-effects of drugs prescribed for shingles can give you a dry mouth. This is best dealt with by taking sips of water or fruit juice, or by using artificial saliva spray which is available on prescription. They can also make you feel a bit woozy at first. This usually wears off after a day or two, but this is why we start with a small dose and build it up gradually.'
Dr David Bowsher, consultant neurologist at the Pain Research Institute, Liverpool University Hospital

More help and advice

- Read all the facts on shingles
- How to relieve the pain of shingles
- Read Joanne's story: 'A jabbing pain turned out to be shingles'
- Check out the full facts about chickenpox

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