Herpes zoster, also called shingles, is an infection caused by the virus varicella zoster--which also causes chicken pox. But in people who have already had the childhood breakout of pox, the varicella zoster virus can strike again with shingles. A vaccine to prevent the illness, as well as antiviral medications to help treat it, have been developed. As seniors are prone to shingles, they're the most at risk, and should consider getting a shingles vaccine. Once you've had shingles, it doesn't typically strike again, although recurrent cases of shingles are possible. This viral infection is characterized by a skin rash and severe pain.
Red Bumps in a Band
The most common symptom of a shingles rash is the shape: it's often found in a band called a dermatome. This band of bumps or blisters can span across the back, chest, or waist. Shingles rash is always red in color and may appear as a bunch of tiny bumps at first. Within days, the bumps fill with fluid and become blisters.
Painful Rash
The shingles rash isn't just itchy, it's extremely painful. Skin may be sensitive and painful even before the rash erupts on the skin. The shingles rash may burn and sting, with only the slightest pressure or touch.
Location of the Rash
A classic sign of the shingles rash is a breakout that occurs unilaterally, on only one side of the body instead of across both. This may appear on the face, back, chest, stomach, arms, or legs.
Blisters That Fall Off
The last stage of the shingles rash occurs when the blisters form a crust on the top and then fall off the skin. Blisters typically fall within 10 days after the rash initially develops. The underlying skin may be a different color than your skin color; these discolorations are permanent in very severe shingles infections.
Other Symptoms
Although the rash is the most characteristic symptom of shingles, the virus causes many more. Problems with urination, diarrhea, swelling of the eyes, nausea, and a high fever with chills are also common symptoms of shingles.
