HERPETIC NEURALGIA PAIN

Post herpetic neuralgia is a painful complication that occurs after a shingles infection. It is a nerve pain due to damage caused by the varicella zoster virus. it is a painful complication that occurs after a shingles infection. The damage causes nerves in the affected dermatomic area of the skin to send abnormal electrical signals to the brain. These signals may convey excruciating pain, and may persist or recur for months, years, or for life.

The pain associated with post herpetic neuralgia most commonly has been described as burning, sharp and jabbing, or deep and aching. Pain is variable, from discomfort to very severe. People who have post herpetic neuralgia often cannot bear even the touch of clothing on the affected skin, a condition called allodynia.

There is no single treatment that relieves post herpetic neuralgia in all people. In many cases, it may take a combination of treatments to reduce the pain. These are small, bandage-like patches that contain the topical, pain-relieving medication lidocaine. These patches can be cut to fit only the affected area. You apply the patches, available by prescription, directly to painful skin to deliver temporary relief. Some people may need prescription-strength pain medications containing tramadol (Ultram, Ryzolt, and Conzip), oxycodone (Percocet, Roxicet, Tylox) or morphine.