I think I have Shingles . I understand that shingles are caused by a virus, and peole who had Chicken Pox are more likely to get shingles. I had chicken pox as a child, and when under stress, am prone to getting cold sores , which I also understand are caused by a Herpes virus. How long do the sores and itching from shingles last, unless medicine is applied? I plan on seeing a doctore in the next couple days, as well. Thank you for ytour reply.