Shingles is quite a painful condition characterized by the appearance of a skin rash. This shingles rash erupts due to the varicella zoster virus. The same virus is also responsible for causing chickenpox. In fact once a person has chicken pox the virus is not cleared from the body and tends to remain within the body in a dormant or latent condition. When a person experiences physical or emotional stress along with weakening of the immune system the virus gets reactivated.

The reactivation of the virus causing shingles rash may occur due to weakening of the immunity. Such a weakening may be due to the person suffering from life threatening conditions like HIV or cancer. Those individuals who undergo chemotherapy and radiation and those taking steroids may suffer from weak immunity.

The shingles rash displays tend to erupt due to the virus that spreads along certain nerve areas. A person getting this rash tends to experience tingling, itching and burning of skin in the initial period. This is followed with eruption of small bumps on a base of reddish skin. The rash tends to have a belt like or band like appearance. With time the blisters are filled with fluid and then they crust over and finally heal.

The shingles rash displays tend to last for a period of around three to approximately four weeks. The pain associated with this condition is extremely intense. The virus can be transmitted through direct skin contact with the blisters. The symptoms most commonly associated with the appearance of the rash include pain, tingling and burning sensation of skin along with increased sensitivity. Those having the rash may also experience headaches along with fever and chills. Abdominal pain along with upset stomach may also be experienced.

The shingles rash displays tend to be observed on one side or area of the body. This is in fact an important aspect that helps in diagnosis of this condition. Those individuals who have had chicken pox are likely to develop shingles in their later life. Those suffering from this condition should take care not to rub the affected areas as this may result in aggravation of the condition.

Cold water compresses can be used to get relief from the pain associated with shingles rash. The treatment for this condition includes taking some antiviral medication. This medication helps to reduce the severity of the condition along with its duration. In some cases the rash may affect regions like the face, nose and eyes and in this case immediate medical attention should be sought as it can result in some serious complications.