Pain, shingles

Pain, shingles
Localized pain in the area of involvement of shingles. When such pain persists beyond one month it is referred to as postherpetic neuralgia.The most common complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia. This occurs when the pain associated with shingles persists beyond one month, even after the rash is gone. The pain can be severe and debilitating and occurs primarily in persons over the age of 50. There is some evidence that treating shingles with steroids and antiviral agents can reduce the duration and occurrence of postherpetic neuralgia. However, the decrease is minimal. The pain of postherpetic neuralgia can be reduced by a number of medications. Tricyclic antidepressant medications (amitriptyline /Elavil and others), as well as anti-seizure medications (gabapentin /Neurontin, carbamazepine /Tegretol), have been used to relieve the pain associated with herpetic neuralgia. Finally, capsaicin cream, a derivative of hot chili peppers, can be used topically on the area after all the blisters have healed, to reduce the pain. Acupuncture and electric nerve stimulation through the skin can be helpful for some patients. These options are best discussed with your healthcare practitioner.

Medical dictionary. 2011.

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  • Shingles — Shin gles, n. [OF. cengle a girth, F. sangle, fr. L. cingulum a girdle, fr. cingere to gird. Cf. {Cincture}, {Cingle}, {Surcingle}.] (Med.) A kind of herpes ({Herpes zoster}) which spreads half way around the body like a girdle, and is usually… …   The Collaborative International Dictionary of English

  • Shingles pain — Localized pain in the area of involvement of shingles. When such pain persists beyond one month it is referred to as postherpetic neuralgia.The most common complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia. This occurs when the pain associated… …   Medical dictionary

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  • shingles —    Also called Herpes zoster. It is caused by the chickenpox virus, and usually occurs in middle age, beginning as inflammation, sharp pain and finally vesicles, erupting at the edges of posterior ganglia of the trunk or face. Usually lasting two …   Herbal-medical glossary

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