U.S. doctors online nowAsk doctors free
A 29-year-old member asked:

Hi dr, i have a fever blister or cold sore on my mouth. which is something i usually get when feeling feverish. for some odd reason, now it is coupled with pimples resembling a rash on my back as well as on my rib cage. what could it be?

1 doctor answer2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Hunter Handsfield
Infectious Disease 55 years experience
Herpes zoster?: If the pimples/rash on your back and "rib cage" (your chest?) are all in one large cluster, you probably have herpes zositer, also called shingles. It's caused by a different herpes-type virus than the one that causes oral herpes (cold sores). Shingles needs immediate diagnosis and treatment to avoid serious pain both in the next few days and ongoing pain later. See a doctor ASAP.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Feb 8, 2020

Disclaimer:

Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.