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What You Need to Know About Postherpetic Neuralgia
Published: May 31, 2024
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a painful condition that can linger long after a shingles rash has healed. Understanding PHN's causes and symptoms can help manage and prevent this chronic pain.
Understanding PHN
PHN occurs when pain persists more than three months after a shingles episode. It's caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. As we age, our immune system weakens, increasing the risk of PHN, especially in those over 60.
Recognizing the Symptoms
PHN pain can feel like burning, stabbing, or sharp sensations and may be constant or come and go. Many people experience allodynia, where even a gentle touch can cause pain. The pain typically follows the area of the body where the shingles rash appeared, often in the thoracic region.
Diagnosing PHN
Diagnosis is based on a history of shingles and persistent pain in the same area. Doctors may use MRI scans and check for antibodies to confirm the condition. It’s important to distinguish PHN from other conditions like trigeminal neuropathy or diabetic neuropathy.
Frequently Asked Questions
PHN is caused by nerve damage from the varicella-zoster virus.
People over 60 and those with severe shingles are at higher risk.
Symptoms include burning, stabbing pain, and allodynia.
Diagnosis involves medical history, pain persistence, and sometimes imaging.
Wrapping Up
Could understanding PHN help you manage your pain better?
References
- Watson CP, Morshead C, Van der Kooy D, et al. Post-herpetic neuralgia: post-mortem analysis of a case. Pain 1988; 34:129.
- Bennett GJ. Hypotheses on the pathogenesis of herpes zoster-associated pain. Ann Neurol 1994; 35 Suppl:S38.
- Oxman MN, Levin MJ, Johnson GR, et al. A vaccine to prevent herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in older adults. N Engl J Med 2005; 352:2271.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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