what is this rash?

[Calluna]

Yeah, I went to one near me yesterday but she said I should see a doctor. She didn't want me to put any thing on it so the doctor can see what it looks like untreated.

[willow5]

Oh well I guess you just need to wait it out. If it's really uncomfortable you could try ice. If it's a rash from a plant, insect or something like that cold might take the flare out of it. You shouldn't have to be completely uncomfortable until Monday

[Calluna]

I was thinking of some nurofen. Panadol never does anything for me. Does that mean I can't go out for dinner tonight? I really need a night off...

Thanks Willow and LMS. I hope the doctor has a less serious diagnosis.. I'm supposed to be meeting my new nephew in the next week or so.

Damn. I was supposed to be having a massage this week too. Won't be able to do that either.

[willow5]

I'm not sure about when you're contagious with shingles Do you know if you actually had chicken pox as a kid? If you didn't then it's not likely to be shingles.

[Calluna]

I had it when I was 5.

Is it contagious via general contact our would they have to come in contact with a sore/ bacteria from a sore? Can I make sure I wash my hands well and not touch it?

[willow5]

I think it's like chicken pox and is contagious while the sores are oozing. That's IF it is shingles it might not be

[Calluna]

The ones on my back have scabs but not sure if thats from scratching them. The ones under my boob have tiny blisters but not oozing.

I dunno what to do...

I know it might not be, I guess I figured I should just go with the worst case scenario.

[willow5]

I don't know. I think it's mostly a big problem for pregnant women and people who haven't had chicken pox. So babies would be a no no if you really think it could be shingles. If I was going out with adults, no one pg and no babies/young kids, I might see if I could cover the rash, thoroughly wash my hands and have absolute minimal physical contact with anyone. Be careful with touching your eyes, we had a resident at work (aged care) with shingles and it spread to her eyes s IF it were to be there you could spread it by touching your eyes then touching someone else I guess. I feel bad for suggesting it now, I feel like I've freaked you out and made you more miserable but I guess you do need to be careful, just in case. Is the rash only on your right or left side or both?

[*LittleMissSummer*]

I've had a look at your photos and i'm 90% certain its shingles as it looks exactly like what mine did. Others can only catch it/chicken pox if they come in contact with the affected area. You are still free to do anything you like only if youre up for it of course!

I went out to dinner, and did all sorts of things when i had it. Its just painful and uncomfortable thats all.