The herpes simplex virus, more commonly called herpes, typically affects the mouth or genital area depending on the specific strain of the virus a person is infected with. HSV-1 is usually responsible for oral herpes (cold sores), while HSV-2 more commonly causes genital herpes. However, the mouth and genitals are not the only areas that can be affected by the virus. The herpes simplex virus can also cause a skin rash anywhere on the body.
While HSV-1 and HSV-2 are probably the most well-known causes of herpes skin rash, shingles, also known as herpes zoster, can also cause a painful skin rash anywhere on the body.
Herpes Zoster
Although shingles is commonly referred to as herpes zoster, it is not caused by the same viruses responsible for oral and genital herpes. Herpes zoster is actually caused by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the virus responsible for chickenpox.
This virus causes a red painful skin rash that is often accompanied by a burning sensation. This type of herpes skin rash can appear anywhere on the body, but usually appears as a stripe of blisters on the torso, neck, or face.
Other symptoms of herpes zoster include:
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Fever
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Chills
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Headache
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Fatigue or muscle weakness
Because herpes zoster is a viral infection, treatment options are limited. A medical provider may prescribe antiviral medication as well as painkillers for relieving discomfort caused by the skin rash.
Treatment for Herpes Related Skin Rashes
If you are experiencing the symptoms of a herpes related skin rash a visit to your local FastMed could be in order. As soon as you notice a skin rash, it is important to have it evaluated by a medical professional to determine the cause.
FastMed is open with extended hours 7 days a week, 365 days a year. No matter when your symptoms strike, you can rest easy knowing that FastMed has a location in your neighborhood ready to provide you with the best care possible.
View our list of locations to find a FastMed near you, or schedule an online check-in using ZipPass.
About FastMed
FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.