Early diagnosis and treatment of shingles (within 3 days of the rash appearing) may help lessen the duration of the outbreak, as well as prevent complications of shingles, such as continuing pain after the lesions have healed.
The first symptoms of shingles may be mistaken for another illness because they are often vague. A rash usually follows the first symptoms of shingles, but this too may also be mistaken for another illness or type of rash, or overlooked.
It is important to go to the doctor immediately if you think you may have shingles. In this section, you can find information on:
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