Shingles causes symptoms of rash and pain that are similar to those caused by some other conditions.

Medical conditions that cause pain include:

• Appendicitis.
• Heart attack.
• Ulcers.
• Kidney problems.
• Migraine headaches.
• Gallbladder problems.
• Herniated disc.

Medical conditions that cause rash include:

• Herpes simplex infection (cold sores or genital herpes).
• Poison oak or ivy infection.
• Inflammation of the skin (dermatitis).
• Impetigo.
• Scabies.
• Insect or spider bites.
• Allergic reactions.