Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN): An Overview
Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a condition that occurs when nerve fibers become damaged from a shingles outbreak and the pain it causes lasts long after the rash has disappeared. It is sometimes referred to simply as “shingles pain,” although this can be misleading because PHN is a distinct pain condition caused by the same virus that triggers a shingles outbreak. While PHN can affect anyone who has had shingles, it is most common in people over the age of 60.
PHN is characterized by a pain that is often described as burning, shooting, stabbing, and/or throbbing. The area of the body affected will depend on where the shingles outbreak occurred, but the pain can be constant and severe. It typically becomes worse with touch, movement, or contact with cold or hot temperatures. It can also lead to other symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
PHN is a chronic condition, and there is no cure. The primary goal of treatment is to manage the pain. The most common treatments include medications to reduce inflammation, block pain signals, or relieve general discomfort. Other treatments can include nerve blocks, botox injections, and physical and occupational therapy. Additionally, lifestyle changes like getting more exercise and reducing stress can help manage symptoms.
Symptoms of Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
- A burning, stabbing, shooting, or throbbing pain in an area of the body that was affected by shingles
- Pain that is made worse by touch, movement, or cold or hot temperatures
- Insomnia or fatigue
- Anxiety or depression
- Skin numbness in the affected area
- Pain that persists even after the shingles rash has healed
Treatments for Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
- Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, opioid pain relievers, topical treatments, and nerve blocks
- Botox injections
- Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitative therapies
- Lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction, exercise, and diet changes
