Post-herpetic pain occurs after the skin lesions caused by shingles have healed and results from damage to the peripheral nerves. It can be persistent and severe, affecting quality of life.
How does it manifest itself?
Symptoms may include:
continuous or intermittent pain
burning sensation
tingling
increased sensitivity to touch
This pain can occur even without visible lesions.
The discomfort may be localized along the path of the affected nerve.
Causes and Mechanism
The pain is caused by damage to the peripheral nerves from the herpes zoster virus. Inflammation and nerve degeneration lead to hyperexcitability of the nerve fibers and a persistent sensation of pain.
Therapeutic solutions
Compounded preparations can relieve pain and protect the affected skin:
creams or gels with lidocaine for local anesthesia