Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
What is Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)?
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) is a type of nerve pain that occurs after shingles. It is a long-term complication of shingles that can last for weeks, months, or years after the shingles rash has gone away. People with PHN experience sharp, burning, or stabbing pain in the areas where the shingles rash once appeared, and the pain can range from mild to severe.
What Causes Post-Herpetic Neuralgia?
Post-herpetic neuralgia is caused by the virus that causes shingles, called varicella-zoster. When a person is infected with this virus, it can cause the nerve fibers to become inflamed and damaged, which can lead to the pain and sensitivity of PHN. As the virus heals, these damaged nerve fibers can become less sensitive and the pain can become more severe.
Who Is at Risk for Post-Herpetic Neuralgia?
Anyone who has had shingles is at risk for developing PHN. The older a person is, the more likely they are to develop PHN. People with a weakened immune system or certain risk factors, such as diabetes, HIV, or a history of chemotherapy, are more likely to develop PHN.
How is Post-Herpetic Neuralgia Treated?
The goal of treatment for PHN is to reduce pain and improve quality of life. Treatment options can include:
- Pain-relieving medications, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, opioids, and topical anesthetics
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Physical therapy or exercise
- Relaxation and stress management techniques
- Spinal cord stimulation
In some cases, a combination of treatments may be needed to reduce pain and improve quality of life.
Conclusion
Post-Herpetic neuralgia is a long-term nerve pain that can occur after a person has had shingles. The virus that causes shingles damages nerve fibers, which can cause PHN. Treatment options can include medications, physical therapy, and electrical nerve stimulation. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be needed to reduce pain and improve quality of life.