9 Symptoms of Shingles

8. Other Conditions Similar to Shingles

Other conditions can mimic shingles, but they're not the same. Allergic hives may cause a burning itch, but the rash doesn't have the typical blister appearance. The rash that develops from plants like poison ivy, sumac, and oak can cause blisters, but they often develop anywhere in the body that has come in contact with the plant. Lastly, the herpes simplex virus is related to the shingles virus and often causes a similar blistering rash. However, the rash only develops on the mouth, nose, and genitals, and the pain is less severe.