Rashes on neck, shoulders, severe pain. Tried hydrocortisone, benadryl capsules. Due to shingles?
Patient: I m a 68 year old male. I have a rash on left neck and shoulder which literally hurts. I ve tried hydrocortisone 1% cr. chlortrimazole cream, Benadryl caps, Prednisone 20 mg/daily x 5 days and it won t go away. I m thinking it might be shingles but I ve been dealing with it for several months. Numbness and tingling up face and ear. Left side only. Doctor: Hello Welcome! Thanks for your answer .   I would be pleased to answer your question .   If it is Shingles , You will need to take an anti viral course for a period of 10 days . You will need a prescription for the same from your Dermatologist or Primary care physician for Anti Viral Acyclovir or Valacyclovir .   Please do not apply steroids or take steroids orally for a long time as it will not make much difference .   Thanks and take care