What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Shingles in the Groin Area?
The main sign of shingles is a painful rash that develops on one side of the face or body, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Shingles does not usually affect the groin area. Other symptoms of shingles include fever, headache, chills and upset stomach.
Pain, itching or tingling in the area of the rash often occurs a few days before the rash develops, notes the CDC. The rash contains blisters that scab over in seven to 10 days and completely heal in two to four weeks. Some people who develop shingles, specifically those with compromised immune systems, may experience a more widespread rash that looks like chickenpox. If shingles affects the eye, permanent vision damage may result.
Although it is uncommon to develop shingles in the groin area, other types of rashes may occur. One common cause of a groin rash is contact dermatitis, which occurs when the skin comes in contact with an irritant, explains WebMD. Jock itch, scabies, pubic lice and certain sexually transmitted infections may also lead to a groin rash. Psoriasis in the groin area usually causes bright red, itchy patches of skin. A doctor should evaluate any groin rashes that are bothersome or do not improve.
