According to the CDC, the initial symptom of shingles is pain and burning, typically localized to one side of the body and affecting a specific area of the skin known as a dermatome. This is often followed by the appearance of a red rash.
Pain and Burning Sensation
Shingles typically commences with a burning sensation in a particular region of the body, often accompanied by pain, tingling, or numbness. This discomfort can range from mild to intense and is usually confined to one side of the body. While it can occur anywhere, it commonly affects the torso or face.
Red Rash
Red Rash Within a few days of onset, a distinctive red rash emerges, typically appearing on one side of the body or face. The rash, often red in color, may vary in hue from dark pink to purplish or brown, depending on skin tone. It can provoke itching and a burning sensation.
Blisters
Blisters As the rash progresses, it may give rise to fluid-filled blisters that form on the reddened skin. These blisters, varying in size from small to large, are prone to rupture easily. Surrounded by inflamed skin, they can cause considerable pain.
Flu-like Symptoms
Flu-like Symptoms Some individuals may exhibit flu-like symptoms, including a mild fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle weakness. Fever is the body’s natural response to infection and inflammation and may be present in more severe cases of shingles.
Itching and Sensitivity to Touch
Itching and Sensitivity to Touch “In addition to the pain, the afflicted area may experience itching. However, scratching the rash can intensify discomfort and heighten the risk of infection. Moreover, the skin may become sensitive to touch, causing even light contact to induce pain or discomfort,” elucidates Dr. Patade.
Scabbing
Scabbing Following a few days, the blisters may rupture, resulting in the development of shallow ulcers. These ulcers subsequently form scabs or crusts as part of the healing process.
What Causes Shingles?
Shingles is triggered by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. While it can affect individuals who have had chickenpox, it remains uncertain why it impacts certain individuals while others remain unaffected.