Shingles is a condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chicken pox. Once a person has had chicken pox, the virus will remain inactive inside nerve cells of the body producing no symptoms. Signs of shingles will appear only if natural triggers cause an outbreak. These triggers can be emotional stress, hormone changes associated with pregnancy and deficiencies in the immune system. Shingles usually affects adults older than age 50, states FamilyDoctor.org. Although there is no cure, identifying the first signs of an outbreak allows a person to treat symptoms as soon as they occur.
Pain in the Affected Area
The first sign of shingles is a tingling sensation that is centralized on a particular area of the body. According to the National Institutes of Health, shingles only affects one side on the body. The tingling sensation will become painful and uncomfortable over the next few days.
Pain associated with shingles can be so severe, states MayoClinic.com, that prescription medication is required. Medications such as oxycodone, neurontin and numbing agents such as lidocaine offer relief to a person experiencing a severe outbreak.
Rash
Shortly after the symptom of tingling and pain occurs, a small rash will develop in the affected area. This rash will continue to spread over the affected region. The rash associated with shingles will consist of small, red bumps that will eventually form into blisters. These blisters will begin to ooze and crust over. According to the National Institutes of Health, this rash can last from one to 14 days.
Itching
During the outbreak of shingles, itching around the affected area may occur. The itching associated with this condition is just like the itching that occurs from insect bites or a sunburn. Itching will often subside once the rash has disappeared.
