How long do the symptoms of Shingles last?

….”shingles” or Herpes Zoster, is a viral infection very much akin to the virus responsible for “Chicken Pox”…….it can be one of the most painful conditions experienced, and symptoms may occur whether blisters are present or not……the whole process usually takes approx. 4-6 weeks, but pain and discomfort may persist much longer, even months, and the virus “hibernates” in neural tissue…….modern anti-virals(Acyclovir and others) should be given early, if possible, and sometimes steroids are given to reduce inflammation……occasionally long term pain management may be needed…….