More on shingles..need your advice..

[momtotwinsplus1]

Thanks so much for your previous response to my post below about shingles at 38. The shingles seem to be following text book course, they are located around dermatome T-11 and extend from spine to rib cage on the right side. I have had them for 1 week now, and all but a few are turning purple, i.e. what I assume is then end of the eruptive phase.
My question now is that yesterday I started having pain in my C-3 dermatome area (back of the neck), no outbreak yet, and the pain is rather dull, not like the stinging I have in T-11, but sensitive none the less. Im really concerned that this could be more shingles, and from what I have read on the internet ( I know, I know!) multiple dermatomes are cause for worry. What are the chances I am having a seperate outbreak so soon after the initial one? Or is this part of the same outbreak, just in a different area.
I am on the 7 day course of Valtrex, but am still having pain and itching in the area of the original outbreak. If I do end up getting another out break at C-3 do you recommend seeing someone, and what kind of Dr. would I see? Thanks again for your time!

[momtotwinsplus1]

Thank you for your advice, you are right, the internet can be a huge help, or a huge cause for worry. I did not get a rash just as you suggested. I do appreciate your input though. And am trying to get a grip! Signing off now..THANKS!

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

It's very hard for me to think that the pain you're feeling is a prelude to another outbreak of zoster in another dermatome remote from the first.  In all my years I've never seen that happen.  If it doesn't appear in 4 days, it won't.  If you get a rash there, show your dermatologist.  My bet is that your mind is working overtime.

Take a break from the internet.  What you have is common and no big deal.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff