Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (as a result of Shingles)

Is Post Herpetic Neuralgia common?

Just under 40% of people with shingles each year are affected by post herpetic neuralgia.

When does it occur?

It may occur as the shingles symptoms subside and can last a few weeks, months or occasionally years. It can appear several weeks or even months after the shingles has subsided.

Why does it happen?

Post Herpetic Neuralgia happens when the chickenpox virus damages a nerve during the shingles outbreak. Not only does the function of the damaged nerve become abnormal, as witnessed by the loss of ordinary sensation, but changes seem also to be induced in the spinal cord or central nervous system as well.

What are the symptoms?

Post Herpetic Neuralgia can be experienced as one of many sensations, such as itching, irritation, burning, tingling, touch sensitivity, numbness or general tenderness.

Can it be treated?

Ordinary painkillers have very little effect on Post Herpetic Neuralgia. Stronger medications such as morphine and methadone relieve the symptoms somewhat but are avoided as much as possible. There are also some prescription creams that can be used to soothe symptoms, although not that effectively. Pulsed Field Magnetic Therapy can be effective with this condition.