The first signs of shingles are usually pain, itching or tingling in the area where the rash will eventually appear - this usually happens only a few days before. Shingles soon develops as a painful rash, usually on one side of the face or body. The shingles rash develops into itchy blisters that will form scab in around 7 to 10 days, resolving within approximately 3 to 5 weeks.
Some people may experience other symptoms, including fever, headache, upset stomach or chills. Complications can occur as people increase in age.
A condition called post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a complication of shingles that can develop. People who develop PHN may experience severe, debilitating pain than can remain even after the rash has resolved.
1. Australian Government Department of Health. Shingles (herpes zoster). Available at: https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/shingles-herpes-zoster (accessed 08 December 2021).
5. National institute on aging. Shingles. Available at: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/shingles (accessed 08 December 2021).
MAT-AU-2102487 Date of preparation January 2022
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