Shingles Diagnosis (Cont.)

Shingles? -- Or Another Medical Condition?

Before making a diagnosis of shingles (also known as herpes zoster), the healthcare provider will also consider other conditions that may share similar shingles symptoms. If the shingles rash has yet to appear, the healthcare provider may consider conditions such as:
 
 
When the rash is present, your healthcare provider may consider conditions such as:
 
  • Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection
  • Poison ivy rash
  • Cellulitis.

 

When Do I See My Doctor If a Shingles Diagnosis Is Possible?

It's important to go to your doctor no later than three days after the rash starts. The doctor needs to see the rash to confirm that you have shingles and to make a shingles treatment plan. Although there is no cure for shingles, early treatment with drugs that fight the virus can help. Shingles can often be treated at home, and patients with shingles rarely need to stay in the hospital.
 
 
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD