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Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN/Shingles)

What is Post Herpetic Neuralgia?

Postherpetic neuralgia (post-her-PET-ic noo-RAL-jah) is a complication of shingles, which is caused by the chickenpox (herpes zoster) virus. Most cases of shingles clear up within a few weeks. But if the pain lasts long after the shingles rash and blisters have disappeared, it’s called postherpetic neuralgia.

Postherpetic neuralgia affects your nerve fibers and skin, and the burning pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia can be severe enough to interfere with sleep and appetite. The risk of postherpetic neuralgia increases with age, primarily affecting people older than 60. The area affected also makes a difference. When shingles occurs on the face, for example, the likelihood of postherpetic neuralgia is significantly higher than for other parts of the body.

How do you treat Post Herpetic Neuralgia?

Treatment of Post Herpetic Neuralgia may require any of the following: Capsaicin or Lidocaine patches, anticonvulsants, antidepressants and/or opioid pain relief.

For more information about Post Herpetic Neuralgias:

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