It is possible to have symptoms or shingles without a rash, as you say. This may occur preceding the actual appearance of a rash, or may occur in an area previously affected by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia).
Your condition may also be due to Trigeminal neuralgia, a condition caused by the irritation of one of the nerves as it comes out of the skull. This can be extremely painful, and is treated by anti seizure medications.
For more information see the following link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trigeminal_neuralgia
Thanks and good luck!
-Dr. Scott W, MD
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