Can Shingles Occur Without Rashes?

Posted on Sat, 21 Feb 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 21 Feb 2015 Answered on

Tue, 10 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I experience some of the symptons of shingles but never get a rash as described. Could that still be shingles?
I cant confirm I ever had chicken pox as a child.

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (-5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Not shingles!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for this query.

I am so sorry to hear about this pain and all the disturbing thoughts this has caused you. There is no shines without the rash. I would call this neuropathic pain and unless a rash surfaces, I will not term this shingles.

Seen the fact that you are very concerned about shingles and you have had chicken pox in the past, I will recommend that you get vaccinated against it. Ask your doctor about the vaccine and get it administered. As such, it would put your mindset at ease.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (8 minutes later)

Thank you Dr. Ditah. I believe I said I cant confirm I ever had chicken pox. Should I still get the vaccine?

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (46 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Ask your doctor about this!

Detailed Answer:
Hi

This is not really an emergency. With you at 62years, if you have no other disease condition, the risk for shingles is not too high. ask your doctor when you next meet him whether he would consider this. However, it is a safe vaccine and there is really no reason to keep away unless there is a formal contra indication.

I wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar