Dr. Jordan Sudberg Explains What Shingles Look Like and How to Identify This Painful Condition

Shingles is a common yet often misunderstood viral infection that can cause significant discomfort and long-term complications if not promptly recognized and treated. Knowing what shingles looks like and how to identify its symptoms early is crucial for effective management.

As a pain management specialist, Dr. Jordan Sudberg frequently encounters patients suffering from shingles-related pain and complications. In this post, he shares expert insights on spotting shingles, understanding its progression, and when to seek medical help.

What Are Shingles?

Shingles, medically known as herpes zoster, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue near the spinal cord and brain. Years later, the virus can reactivate, causing shingles.

Dr. Sudberg explains, “Shingles isn’t contagious in the way chickenpox is, but it can be passed to someone who hasn’t had chickenpox or the vaccine, potentially causing chickenpox—not shingles—in that person.”

Recognizing the Early Signs of Shingles

Before the telltale rash appears, many people experience prodromal symptoms, which can include:

• Tingling, burning, or itching sensation in a localized area
  
• Sensitivity or pain in a specific part of the body, often on one side
  
• General flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue
  

Dr. Sudberg points out that these early symptoms can be subtle and are often mistaken for other issues like muscle strain or nerve pain.

What Does Shingles Look Like?

The hallmark of shingles is a painful rash that typically develops in a band or strip on one side of the body or face. Here’s what to look for:

1. Red Patch or Bump Formation

The rash usually starts as red patches or small bumps on the skin. This localized area corresponds to the nerves where the virus has reactivated.

2. Clusters of Fluid-Filled Blisters

Within a few days, the bumps evolve into clusters of clear, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters resemble chickenpox but tend to stay grouped together.

3. Blister Progression and Crusting

The blisters eventually burst, ooze, and then crust over, forming scabs. This stage lasts about 7 to 10 days.

4. Distribution

The rash most commonly appears on the torso, wrapping around one side of the body, but it can also affect the face, neck, or other areas.

Dr. Sudberg highlights, “Shingles almost always appear unilaterally—only on one side of the body—following the nerve pathways, which helps distinguish it from other rashes.”

Additional Symptoms to Watch For

Besides the rash, shingles can cause:

• Intense burning or stabbing pain, sometimes before the rash develops
  
• Itching or tingling sensations
  
• Sensitivity to touch in the affected area
  
• Fever or chills in some cases
  

In some patients, especially older adults, the nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia) may persist long after the rash heals, making early treatment critical.

When to See a Doctor

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to minimize complications. Dr. Sudberg advises seeking medical care if you notice:

• A painful, blistering rash appearing on one side of your body or face
  
• Severe pain or discomfort without a visible rash but with tingling or burning
  
• Rash near the eyes or on the face, which can threaten vision
  
• High fever or worsening symptoms
  

Antiviral medications prescribed within 72 hours of rash onset can significantly reduce the severity and duration of shingles.

Managing Shingles Pain

Shingles pain can be severe and challenging to manage. As a pain specialist, Dr. Sudberg often treats patients dealing with both acute shingles pain and long-term complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.

“Pain control is a vital part of treatment,” he explains. “We use a combination of medications, nerve blocks, and sometimes physical therapy to help patients regain comfort and function.”

Preventing Shingles

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent shingles or reduce its severity. The CDC recommends the shingles vaccine for adults over 50, and Dr. Sudberg strongly endorses vaccination as a proactive measure.

Final Thoughts

Understanding what shingles looks like and recognizing the early symptoms can make a significant difference in outcomes. With timely treatment and expert pain management from specialists like Dr. Jordan Sudberg, patients can reduce suffering and prevent complications.

If you or a loved one suspects shingles, don’t delay seeking medical advice. Early intervention is key to relief and recovery.