Symptoms of Shingles Virus
One of the only positive things about shingles is that the symptoms are very distinct. This is a positive thing because it allows you to identify shingles early on and consult a doctor. If you are able to meet with a doctor within three days of the initial signs of shingles, they can provide you with an antibiotic that will significantly decrease the severity and amount of time that a case of shingles will last.
The very first symptom of shingles is pain or sensitivity. The pain or sensitivity that you will experience will be very intense. It will occur in a large band on one side of the body. The sensations that will occur in this band can include burning, tingling or constant aching. Additionally, some people may feel a deep shooting pain, often described as a "lightning bolt pain."
After this initial pain and sensitivity, the next symptoms of shingles will arise. This will occur approximately one to three days after the first symptom. During this stage of shingles, an extremely uncomfortable rash will appear. The rash consists of blisters and red bumps, and will appear in the same area as the pain and sensitivity. This rash will eventually begin to weep pus. Once the pus has disappeared, the blisters and rash will start to scab over. Depending on the severity of the scabs and the care you take of them, the rash may or may not leave permanent scars. |
