Which of the following is a symptom of shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. One of the hallmark symptoms of shingles is a painful skin rash, which typically appears as blisters on one side of the body following a dermatomal distribution. This rash is often accompanied by significant pain and discomfort in the affected area, sometimes described as burning or tingling prior to the rash appearing.

While high fever, severe headaches, and loss of appetite can occur in various medical conditions, they are not specific symptoms of shingles. The defining characteristic of shingles is indeed the painful skin rash that clusters in small blisters, indicating localized nerve involvement and irritation. Understanding this key symptom can help with recognition and prompt treatment of shingles, reducing the risk of complications and easing the patient's discomfort.