According to the Mayo Clinic, shingles is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is a reactivation of the chickenpox virus. After you have had chickenpox, this virus lies dormant in nerves in the spinal cord and brain. This virus can reactivate later in life and cause a painful rash along the area around a nerve. According to Medline Plus, there is no cure for shingles, but medications are available to help with symptoms.
Pain
The first symptom of shingles is pain, according to Medline Plus. This pain can be burning, shooting, tingling or itching. It also occurs only along the nerve that's affected by the virus. This initial symptom can then progress to moderate or severe pain and can last for years after the initial symptoms of shingles have resolved. If you experience pain of this nature in a specific region of your body, seek immediate medical attention.
Rash
The next symptom, according to the Mayo Clinic, is a red rash along the area of the nerve that is affected by the varicella-zoster virus. This rash usually occurs a few days after the pain has started. However, the Mayo Clinic says that not all people with shingles experience a rash. If you experience pain and a rash along a specific area of your body, seek prompt medical treatment.
Blisters
The formation of blisters usually occurs after the onset of pain and a rash, according to the Mayo Clinic. These blisters also occur in the same area of your body as the pain and rash. The Mayo Clinic describes these blisters as fluid filled; they then break open and crust over. In addition, Medline Plus says blistering can occur from one to 14 days after the onset of pain. Seek medical attention if you experience pain, a rash or blisters along a specific area of your body.
