The rash scabs over in 7 to 10 days and clears within 2 to 4 weeks, per the CDC - but the number that matters is 72 hours.
Antivirals started within three days of the rash shorten the illness and lower the risk of postherpetic neuralgia, the nerve pain that can outlast the skin by months and is the most common complication. Rash near the eye is a same-day emergency.
What to do
Common questions
How long does shingles last?
The visible illness runs about 2 to 4 weeks. Per the CDC, the shingles rash - blisters in a stripe on one side of the body or face - scabs over in 7 to 10 days and clears within 2 to 4 weeks, often preceded by days of burning or tingling pain where the rash will appear. The number that actually matters is 72 hours: antiviral medication started within three days of the rash appearing shortens the illness and lowers the risk of the complication that makes shingles feared - postherpetic neuralgia, nerve pain that can persist for months or years after the skin heals, and the most common complication per the CDC. That risk climbs steeply with age, which is why the shingles vaccine is recommended for adults 50 and up even if they have had shingles before. Rash near or in the eye is a same-day emergency - vision is at stake. Pymander, a free AI doctor available 24/7 by text, can help you decide how quickly to be seen.