Shingles? What is this?

[Change4321]

I get this cluster of blisters on the left side of my lower back every couple of months. What is it? It comes up suddenly and it very itchy and sore when I lean on anything. It also seems to be accompanied by achy legs, hips and arms. Also, headaches and generally feeling tired.

Sorry for the rubbish photo.....it's not in the easiest place to take a picture of!

Yes it does look like shingles, but it’s strange to come and go so quickly, ime. I had shingles down one side of my ribs, and they stuck around for a good few weeks, healing slowly, and have never come back.

Is it warm to the touch? It could be shingles but it could also be a boil. A diagnostic pharmacist can tell you what it is.

It usually takes about a week to go after scabbing over. I just feel really crap since it's come on this evening....my arms feel like lead weights. So glad I'm not at work tomorrow!

It's not hot. It's a cluster of blisters so don't think it's a boil x

I don’t think shingles usually comes back to the same place. Maybe a cold sore?

Try some magnesium sulphate paste covered with a loose dressing. The paste will draw out the pus and help with healing. I used to get these on my bum. Could hardly sit down on the worst days.

Go to your doctor and get them to take a viral swab.

Could be cold sores - you can get them anywhere, they aren't confined to your mouth/genitals. I get this on my shoulder plus the fluey feeling/heavy limbs. GP will give you tablets (acyclovir) if that's what they think it is.

Shingles wouldn't normally come back but agree with @ToughTitty it could be cold sores (which are the same virus). You'll need a swab taken but acyclovir will treat it.