What Causes Rash On Back Along With Pain?

Posted on Mon, 28 Sep 2015

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

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 Answered on

Tue, 20 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : My husband is experiencing pain in his back and side we noticed a rash . He says it feels like he has been punched the pain is strong. We looked up the shingles virus and it does look like it. Is there any thing he could take for the ppain. We have not been able to get a appointment with his doctor yet.
He is usually in good health doesnt take any medications . Experiencing the pain for a few days and I noticed the rash is where the pain hurts. Has been under alot of stress. We need to know if contagious also we have family members in the hospital.
Not sure if he can see them .

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Most likely herpes zoster (shingles)

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM.

I have gone through your query. Your problem can be most likely herpes zoster (shingles). This can last for 3 to 4 weeks. Some will have post herpetic neuralgia which is a continuous pain lasting again 1 month.

It is contageous and can spread to those who didn't had a chicken pox attack. For those who had chicken pox there is nothing to worry.

You can give over the counter pain medications like ibuprofen and paracetamol. This can be given together if pain is more. If still pain is more then you may need prescription medicines like tramadol.

Antiviral drugs like acyclovir or famcyclovir can be taken for this. It is a prescription drug. You can also use acyclovir cream on rashes. For itching antihistamines like benadryl will be helpful.

Topical anesthetic like lidocaine gel is helpful for pain also. This can be applied on most painful and itchy areas.

Hope this may help you. Let me know if anything not clear.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj