Postherpetic Neuralgia

Post herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a nerve pain (neuralgia) that persists after a (herpes zoster) shingles rash has cleared. If the pain goes, but then returns at a later date, this too is called PHN Shingles is an infection of a nerve, and causes a typical rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus.

About 1 in 5 people have shingles at some time in their life. Shingles can occur at any age, but it is most common in people aged over 50 or often an older, debilitated or immune compromised population. Most people with shingles have pain, but the pain usually eases soon after the rash clears. PHN is pain that persists

Symptoms:-

• Pain. The pain associated with post herpetic neuralgia most commonly has been described as burning, sharp and jabbing, or deep and aching.

• Sensitivity to light touch. People who have post herpetic neuralgia often cannot bear even the touch of clothing on the affected skin.

• Itching and numbness. Less commonly, post herpetic neuralgia can produce an itchy feeling or numbness.

• Weakness or paralysis. In rare cases, you might also experience muscle weakness or paralysis if the nerves involved also control muscle movement.

Diagnosis:-

In most cases, postherpetic neuralgia can be diagnosed during the office exam. No tests are usually necessary.

Treatment:-

The conventional treatment is directed at pain control while waiting for the condition to resolve. Pain therapy may include multiple interventions, such as topical medications, over-the-counter analgesics, tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants and a number of non medical modalities. Occasionally, narcotics may be required. but then returns at a later date.

Homeopathic approach:-

Homeopathy works well in cases of neuralgias. Homeopathic medicines have proven efficacy in the treatment of Post herpatic Neuralgia. Allopathy offers no treatment of this disease except for some anti-viral drugs which do not relieve the pain at all. Homeopathy prevents the spread of the disease as well as ulceration & relieves pain. Homeopathic medicines can remarkably help in relieving symptoms of this condition and are absolutely safe.

Treatment if started in the initial stages may also help in preventing or reducing the intensity of post-herpetic neuralgia. Homeopathic medicines also heal the vesicles and pustules quickly and offer relief for systemic complaints of fatigue, malaise and fever. Patients suffering from post-herpetic neuralgia, a long-lasting pain following shingles, receive significant relief in a relatively short period of time.