Shingles

[Rodmar268]

Can you have the symptons of shingles without having blisters?
I am having sharp burning pain under my left arm and have had it for over 2 weeks.

[Tuckamore]

From a trusted web-site: "The VZV virus that causes chickenpox and shingles can spread when a healthy person comes in direct contact with the open wounds/rashes/blisters of the person suffering from this disease."

"Shingles is not considered to be a fully contagious disease. It is ONLY contagious during the phase when the patient has developed blisters with clear fluid but the rash covering the blisters is yet to develop crusts. Simply put, shingles' contagious period ends with the blisters getting scabbed and drying up."

I thought this might help clarify the contagious issue.

~Tuck

[ducky406]

Yeah probably a good idea not to, just in case. Shingles isn't as contagious as chicken pox but it's still very contagious.. not worth the risk in my opinion. You might actually consider having your husband or any other family member you live with get the vaccination if they haven't already. I believe anyone over the age of 60 is eligible for it.

Out of curiosity did they do a breast examination/ your last mammogram was clear? Burning sensations aren't likely to be anything serious, but there can be breast tissue near your armpit, so it's a possibility. Maybe you should bring it up (especially if it's been more than 5 years since your last mammogram).

[Rodmar268]

Thank you for your insite.  You know, I do have some swelling in that area and I was thinking of the lymph node, so will see the doctor again and see what she says.  We are going to try to sing this afternoon if my voice holds out.  Guess I will just have to keep away from the old folks (of course, I'm not old, ha ha.)  Sometimes they want to come and shake your hand and thank you.  Rodmar268

[Tuckamore]

Hello and Welcome to the Pain Management Forum.

Please know that you are always Welcome here... but we have a great forum that is directed specifically at Shingles including symptoms, pain and treatment. I encourage you to copy and paste your question there.

Here's the link: http://www.medhelp.org/forums/Shingles/show/742

It's my understanding that Shingles pain can occur before any type of rash appears. Indeed it can take weeks before the rash is noticable. However you shouldn't rule out other possiblities.

I also encourage you to consult your PCP. He/she will have the right answers for you. Please let us know how you are doing.

Take Care,
~Tuck

[ducky406]

I'm unsure if you can have shingles without the blisters, but shingles can be dangerous as you get older so I really suggest seeing a dr. If it is shingles it's possible your dr needs to watch you carefully (your age says 71, so best to play safe). If it's not shingles, perhaps it's something else that could need medical attention such as a swollen lymph node.