Known as varicella-zoster, the virus that causes chickenpox stays inside of your body. As years pass, you might not give too much thought to it but the very virus can trigger shingles. Although shingles are characterised by a rash, there’s one warning sign that precedes the telltale bumps.
While rash might be the first visible sign that will ring the alarm bells, the very first symptoms might be felt instead.
The one key sensation that can occur before the rash is pain, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This “main” symptom might appear in the exact area where your rash will eventually crop up.
The CDC adds that this painful sensation might even appear “several days” before the shingles rash.
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What’s more, this isn’t the only warning sensation that could give the condition away as itching and tingling can also appear before the skin sign.
Similarly to the pain, these symptoms can start days before the rash and are likely to be felt in the area where the rash will strike down.
However, the pain might also persist even once the skin bumps start showing.
The NHS states: “The pain may be a constant, dull or burning sensation and its intensity can vary from mild to severe.
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Shingles most commonly target people over the age of 50 but they can strike down at any time.
Apart from your age, other factors that can also raise your risk of shingles include certain underlying conditions and medications.
Luckily, shingles aren’t a life-threatening condition but they can still be very painful and uncomfortable.
If you want to cut your chances of developing shingles, there’s a vaccine called Zostavax which can lower your risk.