Burning feeling on skin on back and chest

[dkosian]

I have been experiencing a burning sensation on the left side of my back starting below my shoulder blade and continuing to just below my waist.  It also continues on across my chest.  It feels very much like a bad sunburn.  I've also been having bad heartburn.  Does anyone know what this can be.  Also, if there is any over-the-counter meds that can relieve this?

[Weffette]

You are very welcome.  I hope this is the last flare up you get. Shingles can be miserable. My mother had them and it resulted in permanent nerve damage. I don't mean to cause you worry, but I just wanted to give you the worst scenario but hoping you the better scenario.  Best wishes in a speedy heal !!

[dkosian]

The pain just goes half way around my body, and you were right.  After  a week of sleepless nights, I called my doc's office.  He diagnosed Shingles and put me on Amitriptyline, which, hopefully, will help with the discomfort.  I don't have blisters yet, but if I get them, he'll put me on a viral med for shingles.

Thanks for your help.  It turns out it isn't something you can cure or relieve the pain without medical help.  I'm glad I didn't wait any longer to get relief.

[Weffette]

Does this pain go past the location of your belly button? Is there a rash?
For instance; does it wrap all the way around your body or just 1/2 way? is there a rash? Do you see little bumps, like poisen ivy?

If it only goes 1/2 way around the body...you could be experiencing a shingles breakout. Shingles is HIGHLY contagious, a form of herpe or chicken pox virus. There is nothing over the counter for it. Zovorax is a good topical cream by prescription only. I would suggest you see your doctor ASAP. BUT...be sure to tell the receptionist on the phone it might be shingles! This is SO important. The very young, the pregnent, and the elderly are extremely suseptable to this type of herpe virus. If it is shingles, you will experience blister type sores and some oozing...much like poisen ivy, with itch and alot of pain...described as a burning sensation. This type of virus lies dormant in everyone that has ever had chicken pox. When your immune system is down or you become highly stressed out, it can flare up.

This is all I can tell you with the little description you gave. If its what I described...get pain meds and Zovorax and dont share towels, soap, or wash clothes with another person.  I hope you heal fast! My thoughts are with you. This virus is NOT fun.