Find a Doctor Find a Doctor
Time to see a specialist?
Time to see a specialist?
We found [COUNT] Specialists
who treat [INTEREST]
near [LOCATION]
We found [COUNT] Specialists
who treat [INTEREST]
near [LOCATION]
[TELEHEALTH] offer Telehealth options.
More
Your Guide to Preventing and Managing Shingles

This content is created by Healthgrades and brought to you by an advertising sponsor. More

This content is created or selected by the Healthgrades editorial team and is funded by an advertising sponsor. The content is subject to the Healthgrades medical review process for accuracy, balance and objectivity. The content is not edited or otherwise influenced by the advertisers appearing on this page except with the possible suggestion of the broad topic area. For more information, read the Healthgrades advertising policy.

QUESTION & ANSWER
Q: What do shingles look like?

Was this helpful?
26
A:
Close-up of shingles rash (herpes zoster) on shoulder
Getty

The shingles rash typically is in a stripe, band or clusters, with blisters that resemble chickenpox (but not as many and not as scattered as with chickenpox). They will be open and oozing for the first few days, then will scab over and gradually disappear over the next 2 weeks or so. The rash usually is confined to one side of your body.

Was this helpful?
26
View All Your Guide to Preventing and Managing Shingles Articles
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
  1. Shingles FAQ. National Foundation for Infectious Disease. http://www.nfid.org/idinfo/shingles/shingles-faq.pdf
  2. Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Overview. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/overview.html