Is That Rash Shingles? Here's How to Tell!
Published: Feb 02, 2024
Recognizing shingles early can make a big difference in managing the condition and reducing complications. Here's what you need to know.
Contents
Spotting the Symptoms
Shingles typically begins with a tingling or painful feeling on one side of the body or face. This is followed by a red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters. The rash usually appears in a single stripe around either the left or right side of the body, but not both.
Pain: The Unexpected Culprit
Pain is often the first symptom of shingles. This pain can be intense and may occur even before the rash appears, which can make early diagnosis challenging. Postherpetic neuralgia, a condition of chronic pain that follows shingles, can also develop, especially in older adults.
Other Signs to Watch For
Some people with shingles may experience fever, headache, or fatigue. These flu-like symptoms can occur alongside the rash and pain, making it important to consider shingles as a possibility if you experience them together.
Frequently Asked Questions
It starts as a red rash that turns into blisters, usually in a stripe on one side.
Yes, pain often occurs before the rash appears.
Yes, fever can accompany other symptoms like rash and pain.
It's a chronic pain condition following shingles, especially in older adults.
Key Takeaways
Identifying shingles early can lead to better management and fewer complications.
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References
Weinberg A, Zhang JH, Oxman MN, et al. Varicella-zoster virus-specific immune responses to herpes zoster in elderly participants in a trial of a clinically effective zoster vaccine. J Infect Dis 2009; 200:1068.
Thomas SL, Wheeler JG, Hall AJ. Contacts with varicella or with children and protection against herpes zoster in adults: a case-control study. Lancet 2002; 360:678.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.