Warning Signs of Shingles

1. Pain from shingles can be debilitating

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The pain associated with shingles is often severe and can be debilitating. It's typically localized to one side of the body and can radiate along the path of the affected nerve. The quality of pain can vary from burning, throbbing, stabbing, or shooting sensations. This pain can persist for weeks to months.

2. A distinctive inflamed rash

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The shingles rash is distinctive, typically appearing as a band or strip of red, inflamed skin with fluid-filled blisters. It follows the course of a nerve and is usually confined to one side of the body, commonly wrapping around the torso but can also occur on the face or other parts of the body. The rash is painful and may cause intense itching and discomfort.

3. Uncomfortable tingling or itching

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Before the rash emerges, many individuals experience prodromal symptoms, including tingling, itching, or a prickling sensation in the affected area. These sensations may precede the appearance of the rash by several days to a week.  You may have caught it from close contact with another sufferer.

4. Unsightly fluid-filled blisters

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The rash progresses from red patches to fluid-filled blisters within a few days. These blisters are fragile and may rupture, leading to oozing and crusting. The fluid inside the blisters is contagious, and care should be taken to avoid spreading the virus to others.

5. It's very sensitive to the touch

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The skin affected by shingles becomes hypersensitive to touch. Even light pressure, clothing, or wind brushing against the area can trigger intense pain and discomfort. This sensitivity can persist even after the rash has healed, contributing to postherpetic neuralgia.

6. Fever is a common symptom

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A mild to moderate fever is a common symptom of shingles, especially during the early stages of the infection. The body's immune response to the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) can lead to fever, along with other flu-like symptoms such as fatigue and chills.

7. A thumping headache

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Headaches often accompany shingles, ranging from mild to severe in intensity. These headaches may be persistent and throbbing, and they can be exacerbated by other symptoms such as light sensitivity (photophobia) and noise sensitivity.  You generally feel rough.

8. Feelings of tiredness and weakness

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Fatigue and feelings of weakness are typical during a shingles outbreak. The body's immune system is actively fighting the virus, which can leave individuals feeling drained and exhausted. Rest and proper hydration are essential for supporting the body's recovery process.

9. You feel unwell and uncomfortable

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Shingles can induce a sense of overall discomfort and malaise. Individuals may feel unwell, achy, and generally out of sorts. This discomfort can interfere with daily activities and may contribute to emotional distress.  It can be hard to not feel depressed with what's going on.

10. There's weakness in your muscles

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In some cases, shingles can lead to muscle weakness, especially if the nerves supplying the muscles are affected by the virus. This weakness may be localized to the area affected by the rash or may extend to surrounding muscle groups. Physical therapy and gentle exercise can help regain strength and mobility as the infection resolves.

11. Nausea and stomach issues can occur

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Both nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort can occur in some individuals as part of the body's response to the viral infection. While not as common as other symptoms, nausea can contribute to a general feeling of unwellness during a shingles outbreak.

12. You've got the chills

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Shingles can trigger chills and feelings of coldness, especially during the initial stages of the infection when the body's immune response is activated. Chills often accompany fever and are a natural response as the body attempts to fight off the virus.

13. Swelling near the affected area

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Swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes near the affected area are common as the body's immune system responds to the presence of the varicella-zoster virus. Swollen lymph nodes indicate that the body is mounting an immune response to combat the viral infection.

14. You have flu-like symptoms

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Some individuals with shingles may experience symptoms which feel like you've got the flu, including body aches, fatigue, and a mild fever. These flu-like symptoms can contribute to feelings of malaise and general discomfort during the course of the illness.

15. Photophobia - sensitivity to light

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If the shingles rash affects the face or eyes, sensitivity to light (photophobia) may occur. Exposure to bright light can intensify discomfort and pain in the affected area, making it challenging to be in well-lit environments.  You may have to wear sunglasses to cope with this.

16. Difficulty concentrating or focussing

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The pain and discomfort associated with shingles can make it difficult for sufferers to concentrate or focus on tasks. Persistent pain, fatigue, and other symptoms can disrupt cognitive function, leading to difficulties in memory, attention, and decision-making.

17. Numbness after the rash has disappeared

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Even after the rash has healed, some people may experience residual symptoms such as numbness or tingling in the affected area. This condition, known as postherpetic neuralgia, occurs due to nerve damage caused by the shingles virus. Postherpetic neuralgia can be chronic and debilitating.

18. The skin is very red

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The skin surrounding the shingles rash often becomes red and inflamed as a result of the body's inflammatory response to the virus. Redness indicates increased blood flow to the affected area, as the immune system works to contain and eliminate the viral infection.

19. A burning sensation

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Along with the characteristic pain, individuals with shingles may experience a burning sensation in the affected area. This burning sensation can persist even after the rash has cleared and may be indicative of nerve damage caused by the virus.  It will take time to settle down.

20. Postherpetic Neuralgia - nerve pain

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Postherpetic neuralgia is a common complication of shingles characterized by persistent nerve pain in the area where the rash occurred. This chronic pain condition can last for months or even years after the acute phase of the illness has resolved, significantly impacting the individual's quality of life and emotional well-being.

21. There's localized swelling

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In addition to swelling of nearby lymph nodes, individuals may experience swelling directly at the site of the shingles rash. This localized swelling can cause discomfort, tenderness, and may even affect mobility, especially if the rash occurs in an area prone to movement such as joints or limbs.

22. You could have difficulty sleeping

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The pain and discomfort from shingles can significantly disrupt sleep patterns. Pain may intensify at night, making it difficult to find a comfortable position to rest. Sleep disturbances can contribute to increased fatigue and exacerbate other symptoms associated with shingles.

23. There's changes in sensation

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Shingles can disrupt normal nerve function, leading to alterations in sensation in the affected area. Some sufferers may experience numbness, tingling, hypersensitivity to touch, or changes in temperature perception. These sensory changes can persist even after the rash has resolved and may require ongoing management.

24. Gastrointestinal symptoms can occur

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While less common, shingles can affect the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or loss of appetite. These symptoms may be a result of the body's inflammatory response to the virus or side effects of medications used to manage shingles-related symptoms.

25. Respiratory symptoms in some cases

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In rare cases, shingles can involve the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain. This is more likely to occur in individuals with compromised immune systems or when shingles affects the chest or lungs. Prompt medical attention is crucial if respiratory symptoms develop.

26. Possible localized hair loss

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Shingles can cause temporary hair loss in the area affected by the rash. This hair loss typically occurs as a result of inflammation and disruption of hair follicles. Hair growth usually resumes once the skin heals, but it may take some time for hair to fully regrow.

27. Blurred vision or eye symptoms

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If shingles affects the area around the eyes (ophthalmic shingles), it can lead to symptoms such as blurred vision, eye pain, redness, or sensitivity to light. Ophthalmic shingles requires urgent evaluation by an eye care professional to prevent potential complications such as vision loss or corneal damage.

28. Joint pain or inflammation around affected nerve

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Shingles can cause joint pain or inflammation (arthralgia) in the vicinity of the affected nerve, especially if the rash is located near joints or areas of movement. Joint pain may persist even after the rash has healed and may require treatment to alleviate discomfort.

29.  You may experience mood changes

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Chronic pain and discomfort associated with shingles, particularly in cases of postherpetic neuralgia, can take a toll on mental health. Individuals may experience mood changes such as irritability, anxiety, or depression. It's important for individuals experiencing mood changes to seek support and guidance from healthcare professionals.

30. Memory or cognitive issues

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Cognitive symptoms such as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or mental fog may occur during a shingles outbreak, especially in cases of severe pain or prolonged discomfort. These cognitive symptoms can interfere with daily functioning and may require supportive interventions to manage effectively.

31. What to do if you have shingles -

Antiviral medications

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Antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir are commonly prescribed to treat shingles. These medications help reduce the severity and duration of the outbreak by inhibiting the replication of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Antiviral therapy is most effective when started within 72 hours of the onset of the rash.

32. Concentrate on pain management

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Pain is a hallmark symptom of shingles and can be severe and debilitating. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help alleviate mild to moderate pain. In more severe cases, prescription pain medications or topical treatments containing lidocaine or capsaicin may be necessary to provide relief.

33. Use antiviral creams and ointments

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Topical antiviral creams and ointments containing acyclovir or penciclovir may be applied directly to the rash to help reduce pain, itching, and the duration of the outbreak. These medications can help prevent the spread of the virus to other areas of the body and promote faster healing of the lesions.

34. Try calamine lotion and cool compresses

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Calamine lotion can help soothe itching and discomfort associated with the shingles rash. Applying calamine lotion to the affected areas several times a day can provide relief from itching and promote healing. Cool compresses or oatmeal baths may also help alleviate itching and inflammation.

35. Postherpetic neuralgia management with the help of a health professional

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Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common complication of shingles characterized by persistent nerve pain in the affected area. Treatment options for PHN may include prescription medications such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or topical lidocaine patches.

36. Shingles is part of the same family as chickenpox.  Chickenpox symptoms include - crazy itching

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One of the most uncomfortable symptoms of chickenpox is the intense itching associated with the rash. The urge to scratch can be overwhelming, but scratching can lead to secondary infections or scarring.  Even if you do scratch, you will still feel just as itchy.

37. A mild or moderate fever

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Chickenpox often causes a mild to moderate fever, which is the body's natural response to the viral infection. The fever typically accompanies the onset of the rash and may persist for several days.  Over-the counter medication can help bring the fever down.

38. Feeling lethargic

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Feeling tired and rundown is common with chickenpox, as the body's immune system works to fight off the virus. Rest and plenty of fluids are important for helping the body recover.  Once you are up and about, don't go made and overdo things as you could feel unwell again.

39. No appetite for anything

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Many individuals with chickenpox experience a decreased appetite due to factors such as fever, discomfort, and general malaise. It's essential to stay hydrated and nourished during the illness, even if appetite is reduced.  Try soups and broths to keep the body hydrated.

40. You have a headache

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Headaches can occur as a result of the body's immune response to the virus or due to dehydration from fever and sweating. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate headache discomfort.  Rest in a darkened room if the head pain becomes severe.

41. ......and a sore throat

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Chickenpox can cause irritation and inflammation in the throat, leading to a sore throat and discomfort, especially when swallowing. Gargling with warm salt water or using throat lozenges may provide relief.  Drink plenty liquids as foods may be difficult to swallow.

42. You're just not yourself

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Chickenpox often triggers a general feeling of discomfort, unease, or illness. This can include symptoms such as body aches, weakness, and irritability.  You feel sorry for yourself and can't get into a comfortable position, either sitting or standing.

43. Your muscles ache

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Muscle aches and pain symptoms may accompany chickenpox, contributing to feelings of overall discomfort and fatigue. Rest and gentle stretching exercises can help alleviate muscle ache.  ibuprofen may also be recommended to help alleviate your symptoms.

44. You're suffering with nausea

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Nausea is a common symptom of chickenpox, although vomiting is less common. Nausea may be related to the body's immune response to the virus or gastrointestinal irritation. Fizzy soda may help or try grated fresh ginger in cooled, boiled water to help this awful feeling.

45. There's pain in your tummy

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Some people with chickenpox may experience abdominal pain or cramping, which can be caused by viral inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.  Consuming bland foods and staying hydrated, while seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

46. You feel irritable

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Children, in particular, may easily become irritable or over-fussy when they have chickenpox due to the discomfort caused by the rash and other symptoms. Providing comfort measures such as cool baths and distraction techniques can help soothe irritability.

47. The itching stops you getting to sleep

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Itching and discomfort from the chickenpox rash can make it difficult for affected individuals to sleep well at night. Calamine lotion, antihistamines, or oatmeal baths may help alleviate itching and promote better sleep.  Also, keep the bedroom or sleeping area cool.

48. You notice swollen lymph nodes

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Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck and head region, may occur as the body's immune system responds to the viral infection. Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that the immune system is actively fighting off the virus.  Consult a professional if you are worried.

49. Fluid-filled blisters in different stages

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The chickenpox rash progresses through different stages, starting with red spots that evolve into fluid-filled blisters within a day or two. Over time, the blisters rupture and crust over, forming scabs that eventually fall off as the skin heals. It's important not to scratch or pick at the blisters to prevent scarring and secondary infections.

50. Scabs form when it is healing

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After a couple of weeks, when you are no longer infectious, the blisters will be drying up, leaving you with unsightly, hard scabs.  DO NOT pick these off, under any circumstances.  Allow them to fall off naturally or you could be left with scarring, not good if it's on your face.