Critical Warning Signs Of Shingles

Flu-Like Symptoms

Many patients who have shingles experience an overall 'unwell' feeling, including symptoms such as nausea. In some cases, individuals affected believe they are developing the flu. However, when some of the other warning signs are experienced alongside these flu-like symptoms, shingles may be the real issue.

Although nausea and an upset stomach are fairly common, patients may also feel achy. Before a rash breaks out, some individuals experience a dull ache throughout their muscles. For elderly patients, this pain can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities, forcing them to stay in bed.

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Red Rash And Blisters

The rash associated with shingles is distinct from other rashes that individuals may get. It should make it easy for patients and their doctors to determine if they have shingles. A shingles rash consists of lots of blisters filled with fluid. The red rash and blisters are often very painful and will cause significant discomfort. Typically, a shingles rash is located on only one side of the body. The shingles virus most commonly affects nerve roots in the back, neck, chest, or buttocks, so these areas are where this kind of rash will most commonly be found. However, it can occur anywhere on the patient's body. The blisters from a shingles rash should scab over within ten days. Within two weeks, the blisters should be gone altogether. If a patient's immune system is weakened, it may take longer for their blisters from shingles to heal.

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