Duration
The “incubation period” takes decades. The time before the outbreak of the rash usually lasts a few days. The appearance of the general symptoms is evident during this time.
The first skin symptoms appear as redness and remain for a few days. When the first skin changes are visible, the formation of blisters on the skin usually takes half a day to a whole day. The melting and clouding of the blisters takes at least another day.
It can also take 2 – 7 days for the contents of the blisters to become cloudy, purulent yellowish. During this time the redness of the skin will subside. The bursting of the blisters happens within the following days and takes a few days.
The brownish-yellowish crusts and bark formations occur within 7-14 days. If the incubation period is not counted, shingles without complications takes 14-28 days. In case of chronic course the pain persists.
If the affected skin areas are scratched, permanent pigment changes and scars may develop. Especially if necrotizing inflammations and secondary infections develop, permanent damage to the skin can occur. More information on this topic can be found here Duration of shingles.
Course in HIV
Since the immune system is severely weakened during HIV infection, shingles often lasts longer and is more severe. Often chronic pain develops. At the same time, shingles can in turn affect the immune system.
Controlled treatment is necessary here. Further information on HIV can be found here.
