upper back pain

[ARIEL956]

about 6 yrs ago i was diagnosed with shingles i was treated with medication and they were gone now i started with the same pain in my upper left side and it follows my lower left side but i have no blisters in my body does this mean i can have shingles again what can i do to dectect it on time before the pain gets even worst

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Welcome to the MedHelp forum!
Shingles without rash is possible and if all other causes like muscle strain and pinched nerve are ruled out then this is a likely diagnosis. Apply a local analgesic and use a heating pad and see. This will relieve muscle strain. Pinched nerve will respond to physiotherapy. Other than that it can be pain due to pancreatitis, gastritis or kidney infection too.
Please consult your PCP for primary examination followed by proper referral.
Hope this helps. Take care!

[Lizblvn]

i know my brother has had shingles quite often in the last few years and he is able to tell when he is having another outbreak by just the pain. i also know that the pain from shingles may never completely go away. i think u should c ur doctor at the first sign of pain so that u can start the treatment as soon as possible.