Shingles is an illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. From the episode of chickenpox the virus remains dormant in the individual's body for several years before it reactivates as the shingles illness. Most individuals are over 50 years old or have a weakened immune system when the virus crops up again explains FamilyDoctor.org. Symptoms of shingles can begin like the flu but pain is the key effect of shingles.
Fever
Fever and chills can occur with shingles, which are common symptoms of the flu. MayoClinic.com indicates a fever is not the first symptom and does not necessarily occur in every individual. Pain is usually the first sign of shingles. An elevated temperature is the body's way of fighting an infectious agent.
General Aches and Pains
Shingles causes unusual sensations like pain, burning and numbness on the torso where the characteristic rash will appear. In addition to this an individual may notice general body aches and a headache with the infection. These are similar symptoms to the flu.
Abdominal Symptoms
Nausea and diarrhea are potential symptoms of shingles states FamilyDoctor.org. These are similar to signs of the flu but are not the most common. With shingles, the flu-like symptoms created by the body are its attempt to fight off the infectious agent.
