What is Postherpetic Neuralgia?
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a painful nerve condition that can develop as a complication of shingles, a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a shingles rash fades, some people continue to experience intense, burning pain along the area where the rash occurred. PHN can be particularly disruptive, as its symptoms may persist for months or even years, especially among individuals over the age of 60. Although there is no definitive cure for postherpetic neuralgia, effective treatments are available to help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.1
Symptoms of Postherpetic Neuralgia
Postherpetic neuralgia symptoms are usually confined to the area of skin that was affected by the initial shingles outbreak, most commonly in a band around the torso on one side of the body. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent Pain: Pain that continues for three months or more after the shingles rash clears. This pain may feel burning, sharp, or piercing, or it may present as a deep, persistent ache.
- Sensitivity to Touch:Even light contact, like clothing brushing against the skin, can cause intense discomfort for individuals with postherpetic neuralgia.
- Itching or Numbness: In some cases, the affected area may feel itchy or lose sensation, leading to areas of numbness instead of pain.2
Who is at Risk for PHN?
Approximately 10% to 18% of people who experience shingles will also develop postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). The risk of PHN increases significantly with age—older adults are far more likely to experience prolonged and severe nerve pain following shingles compared to younger individuals. In fact, PHN is rare in people under the age of 40. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk, as compromised immunity can increase the likelihood of both shingles and its potential complications.3
Other factors that may increase the risk of PHN include:
- Severity of Shingles Rash: Experiencing a more severe shingles rash can raise the likelihood of developing PHN.
- Early Sensations of Pain, Itching, or Tingling: If you noticed pain, itchiness, or tingling in the skin a few days before the shingles rash appeared, you may be at higher risk.
- Delay in Seeking Treatment: Waiting more than three days to see a healthcare provider after a shingles rash appears may increase the chance of PHN, as prompt treatment with antiviral medication can help reduce risk.4
Treatment for Postherpetic Neuralgia
At DFW Spine Institute, our approach to treating postherpetic neuralgia focuses on reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing quality of life. Depending on the individual’s needs, effective treatment options may include:
- Medication Management: Anti-inflammatory medications and other pain relievers can help manage nerve pain and reduce discomfort associated with postherpetic neuralgia.
- Nerve Blocks: By injecting an anesthetic near the affected nerves, nerve blocks can temporarily interrupt pain signals, providing significant relief, particularly for localized and intense nerve pain.
- Ketamine Infusion Therapy: For patients with severe or unresponsive nerve pain, ketamine infusion therapy offers an alternative that may reduce pain intensity, especially when other treatments are insufficient.
- Rhizotomy – Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This minimally invasive procedure uses radiofrequency energy to deactivate specific nerves transmitting pain signals, offering long-lasting relief for chronic nerve pain.
- Magnetic Peripheral Nerve Stimulation: This non-invasive treatment uses magnetic fields to stimulate peripheral nerves, which can reduce pain levels and enhance nerve function for patients seeking a non-surgical solution.
Each treatment plan is customized to provide effective relief tailored to the specific needs of those dealing with postherpetic neuralgia.
Contact Us
If you’re dealing with the ongoing pain of postherpetic neuralgia, the team at DFW Spine Institute is here to help. Our specialists provide compassionate, personalized care for patients throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, and the greater DFW, TX area. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward finding lasting relief and improving your quality of life. We’re committed to helping you manage your symptoms and regain comfort with advanced, tailored treatment options.
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FAQs About Postherpetic Neuralgia
How long does postherpetic neuralgia last?
Postherpetic neuralgia can vary widely in duration. While some people experience relief within a few months, others may have symptoms that persist for years. The severity and duration of the pain often increase with age, but effective treatments are available to manage and alleviate symptoms.
What causes postherpetic neuralgia?
Postherpetic neuralgia is caused by nerve damage following a shingles outbreak. When the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox) reactivates, it can damage nerves and lead to long-lasting pain, even after the shingles rash has healed.
Is postherpetic neuralgia contagious?
No, postherpetic neuralgia itself is not contagious. However, shingles—the condition that can lead to postherpetic neuralgia—is caused by a virus that can be spread to those who have not had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine.
Can postherpetic neuralgia be prevented?
The best way to reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia is through vaccination against shingles. Early antiviral treatment during a shingles outbreak can also decrease the likelihood of developing this condition.
Does postherpetic neuralgia get worse over time?
For many people, postherpetic neuralgia gradually improves over time. However, without treatment, some individuals may continue to experience severe pain. Seeking early treatment can help manage symptoms and improve comfort.
Can lifestyle changes help with postherpetic neuralgia?
Yes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can play a role in managing symptoms. Gentle exercise, stress management, and a balanced diet may help improve overall well-being and potentially reduce pain sensitivity.
What should I do if my postherpetic neuralgia pain isn’t responding to treatment?
If traditional treatments are not effective, more specialized pain management options, like ketamine infusions or advanced nerve stimulation techniques, may provide relief. A pain management specialist can work with you to find the best combination of therapies.
