Post-Herpetic Neuralgia refers to lasting pain in the areas of the skin that have been affected from Shingles. This condition affects around one in five people with Shingles, with those aged 50 and over being at particularly high risk.
The main symptom of Post-Herpetic Neuralgia is nerve pain in affected areas of the skin – this pain may be intermittent or continuous. It may be described as stabbing, burning, shooting, aching, throbbing pain or compared to electric shocks. In addition to pain, the affected area may also feel itch, be more sensitive than usual, such as feeling painful from something that usually not hurt.
In many cases, patients with Post-Herpetic Neuralgia make a full recovery within a year; however, some symptoms occasionally last for several years, or may be permanent.
Treatments for Post-Herpetic Neuralgia
Treatments for Post-Herpetic Neuralgia usually focus on pain management. This may involve prescription painkillers as over-the-counter painkillers (such as paracetamol and ibuprofen) are usually not helpful.
Antidepressant medications may also be useful in treating nerve pain and may be considered for Post-Herpetic Neuralgia.
Medical Cannabis Treatment
Various studies have demonstrated that medical cannabis may be useful as an alternative or adjunct therapy in the treatment of neuropathic pain (including Post-Herpetic Neuralgia). The Wellford Medical Clinics specialises in medical cannabis treatment for pain management. Our specialist clinicians assess every case carefully to provide relevant and meaningful advice and treatment.