Shingles Identification

Shingles is a condition caused by a viral infection which usually presents as a painful rash. It is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. Early identification and treatment can lessen the duration, pain, and symptoms of a shingles attack.

Identification

• Shingles is identified by a rash that appears as a band of blisters. The rash can occur anywhere on the body, but it often radiates from the mid back around to one side of the chest.

Symptoms

• Frequently, only one side or one section of the body is affected by the shingles symptoms. In addition to a rash and pain, itching, oozing blisters, fever, chills, headaches, fatigue, and overall achiness can occur.

Considerations

• Skin sensitivity, numbness, and tingling may be the beginning signs of shingles. The head, stomach, neck, face, leg, and arm are usually first affected.

Distress

• Stomach pain, diarrhea, and tenderness in the lymph nodes may occur. The pain is frequently intense and is often described as a burning sensation.

Eruptive Stage

• When the rash is visible, redness, blisters, and swelling may accompany the painful eruption. The rash can endure from three to five weeks.

Complications

• Occasionally, severe pain where the rash had been and a weakened immune system may endure after the outbreak has subsided.