Diseases
postherpetic neuralgia
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Post-herpetic neuralgia is a lasting pain in the areas of your skin where you had shingles. Around one in five people with shingles will get post-herpetic neuralgia. People age 50 and over are particularly at risk.
Symptoms
- pain that lasts three months or longer
- not being able to stand light touch.
- itching or loss of feeling.
Causes
- the chickenpox virus causes shingles. once you've had chickenpox, the virus stays in your body for the rest of your life.
Risk factors
- how bad the case of shingles was
- age. you're older than 60.
- where shingles appeared. you had shingles on your face or torso.
Diagnosis
- physical exam.
- skin test
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is postherpetic neuralgia?
Post-herpetic neuralgia is a lasting pain in the areas of your skin where you had shingles. Around one in five people with shingles will get post-herpetic neuralgia. People age 50 and over are particularly at risk.
What are the symptoms of postherpetic neuralgia?
pain that lasts three months or longer, not being able to stand light touch., itching or loss of feeling.
What causes postherpetic neuralgia?
the chickenpox virus causes shingles. once you've had chickenpox, the virus stays in your body for the rest of your life.
Which medicines are used for postherpetic neuralgia?
amitriptyline, carbamazepine, gabapentin, pregabalin, vitamin e
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