What are the symptoms of shingles?
The first signs of shingles is usually pain, itching or tingling in the area where the rash will eventually appear- this usually happens only a few days before. Shingles soon develops as a painful rash, usually on one side of the face or body. The shingles rash develops into itchy blisters that will form scab in around 7 to 10 days, resolving within approximately 2 to 4 weeks.
Some people may experience other symptoms, including fever, headache, upset stomach or chills. Complications can occur as people increase in age.
A condition called post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a complication of shingles that can develop. People who develop PHN may experience severe, debilitating pain than can remain even after the rash has resolved.
Sources & Citations
- Australian Government, Department of Health. The Australian Immunisation Australian Government, Department of Health. The Australian Immunisation Handbook 10th Edition. Zoster (herpes zoster). Available at: http://www.immunise.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/Handbook10-home~handbook10part4~handbook10-4-24 (accessed 16 April 2018).
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Shingles (herpes zoster) signs and symptoms. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/symptoms.html (accessed 16 April 2018).
- Health Direct. Shingles. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/shingles (accessed 27 April 2018).
SPANZ.SAPAS.18.04.0180 - Date of preparation May 2018
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