Mild Shingles Disease

Shingles is a condition caused by a flareup of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox when it is first contracted. Although symptoms of shingles can be very intense for some, for others the condition is mild, which affects treatment.

Pain

• The first symptom of shingles is normally pain along the path of nerve affected by the virus, according to the Mayo Clinic. This pain can be intense for some and mild for others

Rash

• A blistering rash typically follows the development. However, in a condition known as zoster sine herpete, no rash follows; in a similar condition (zoster cum herpete minimo), the rash is very small and may go unnoticed.

Effects

• Mild shingles disease can be difficult to diagnose, especially in the case of zoster sine herpete, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).

Treatment

• For persons who only experience minor pain during shingles, over-the-counter pain medications may be appropriate, according to the AAFP. In cases of no or only mild rash, topical medications may not be required.

Considerations

• Even in cases of mild shingles, it is important to visit your doctor so you can be prescribed antiviral medications and corticosteroids which limit the course of the disease.