Does shingles cause chest pain?

Shingles affects a nerve and the nearby skin. Pain may feel burning, stabbing, tingling or sensitive to light touch, usually in a band on one side of the chest or back. A rash with grouped blisters can appear after the pain begins, so the skin may initially look normal.

Chest pain should never be labelled shingles from location alone. Heart, lung and other conditions can cause chest discomfort. A clinician may consider the pain's timing, side, triggers, skin changes, breathing symptoms and medical history.

Arrange prompt medical advice if new one-sided burning chest pain is followed by a rash, especially if the rash is near the eye or face. Early assessment can help determine whether antiviral treatment is appropriate. Keep the area clean and covered, avoid scratching, and avoid close skin contact with people who have not had chickenpox or its vaccine while blisters are open.

Call emergency services for pressure or squeezing chest pain, pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back, shortness of breath, sweating, fainting, severe dizziness, or sudden weakness. Do this even when a rash is present. Seek urgent review for fever with a rapidly spreading rash, confusion, or a weakened immune system.

Does the pain follow a nerve pattern? Could this be shingles or another chest problem? What pain relief is suitable, and how should I protect others while the blisters heal?