Your response to the question regarding shingles without the skin eruption did not mention the (albeit rare) occurrence of zoster sine herpete, where zoster pain can occur without the characteristic skin eruption. In some recurrent cases, VZV [Varicella-Zoster Virus] has been recovered from spinal fluid.

--R. Travers, M.D.

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Dear Alice

I, too, have had shingles without any rash. I was in fact diagnosed with shingles, without a rash. It was very painful as the previous writer indicated. We share the exact same symptoms. My Doctor has indicated to me, it is most likely brought on by stress overload. They can give you something for the pain. Try and relax. I have found it's all about stress management.