A Mild Case of Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the chickenpox virus. If you've ever had chickenpox, you can develop shingles because the virus remains in your body. It can be dormant for many years and then unexpectedly become active again and cause shingles. People who are younger and have a healthy immune system typically have milder symptoms. But even a mild case of shingles can last several weeks. While there is no cure, treatment options are available.

Itchiness may be the first symptom of a mild case of shingles. (Image: Tharakorn/iStock/Getty Images)

Early Symptoms

The zoster virus resides in nerve cells after the chickenpox. As long as the virus remains inactive, it causes no symptoms. Shingles occurs when the virus becomes active again. The illness begins with the pre-eruptive phase, meaning the stage before the rash. Given that the virus inhabits nerve cells, it's not surprising that the first symptoms involve abnormal skin sensations, such as tingling, itchiness, burning, tenderness or pain. With a mild case of shingles, tingling or itchiness tend to predominate rather than more painful sensations. These sensations are limited to one side of the body and typically affect a single, discrete band of skin. The trunk is most commonly affected, followed by the face.

Rash Phase

Typically within a few days to a week after the skin sensations begin, the shingles rash develops in the same area. This is called the eruptive phase of the illness. The rash begins as a red, raised area followed by development of clusters of fluid-filled, pimple-like structures called vesicles. They appear in crops for up to 5 days. With a mild case of shingles, new vesicle formation is often limited to 1 or 2 days, and fewer vesicles usually form than with more severe cases. The vesicles typically crust over within a week, with complete healing in 2 to 4 weeks. Abnormal skin sensations continue during the eruptive phase and gradually diminish as the rash goes away. Intense pain is less likely with a mild case of shingles, and some people report only itchiness or tingling.

Treatment

There is no cure for shingles but there are treatment options. Antiviral medicines may be prescribed for even a mild case of shingles if you are 50 or older, have a weakened immune system, or the rash involves an area other than your trunk. These medicines should ideally be started within 3 days of the appearance of the rash. Options include acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex) and famciclovir (Famvir). Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), can be useful for mild discomfort. Cool compresses, calamine lotion and oatmeal baths can help relieve itchiness and other rash-related discomfort. Covering the affected skin loosely with sterile gauze can also help prevent irritation from clothing.

Prevention and Cautionary Notes

Even a mild case of shingles can be very uncomfortable and complications sometimes develop. You can significantly reduce your risk of shingles by getting the herpes zoster vaccine (Zostavax). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the vaccine for people age 60 and older, even if you've already had shingles.

Contact your doctor right away if you suspect you might have shingles and have risk factors for complications, including: -- age older than 60 -- HIV or another illness that weakens your immune system -- current treatment with cancer, steroid or organ transplant medications

Reviewed by: Tina M. St. John, M.D.