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Suggest Treatment For Postherpetic Neuralgia Symptoms

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Posted on Wed, 31 May 2017
Question: I have recently had shingles located on my face. The shingles seem to be cured but I have a nagging sensation oof itching and a feeling that something is 'crawling' around under the skin. The itching is also a bit painful. Do I still have the shingles or is tjhis a normal aftermath.?
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (42 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
post herpetic neuralgia

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

The symptoms that you are describing are in keeping with postherpetic neuralgia.
This refers to nerve related symptoms and signs that occur after shingles.

This particular virus can affect the nerves in a particular area and cause long term pain or abnormal sensations such as the itching or crawling that you mentioned.

In some persons, it can last only a short amount of time , while in others it can last for weeks or years.

Treatment can involve the use of common pain medication or medication that would help suppress nerve impulse eg gabapentin, lyrica, amitriptyline.
These meds are used for nerve related pain (neuralgia) though they have other uses as well

If the symptoms continue or they are bothersome, then you would need to see your doctor for assessment and treatment

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Postherpetic Neuralgia Symptoms

Brief Answer: post herpetic neuralgia Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic The symptoms that you are describing are in keeping with postherpetic neuralgia. This refers to nerve related symptoms and signs that occur after shingles. This particular virus can affect the nerves in a particular area and cause long term pain or abnormal sensations such as the itching or crawling that you mentioned. In some persons, it can last only a short amount of time , while in others it can last for weeks or years. Treatment can involve the use of common pain medication or medication that would help suppress nerve impulse eg gabapentin, lyrica, amitriptyline. These meds are used for nerve related pain (neuralgia) though they have other uses as well If the symptoms continue or they are bothersome, then you would need to see your doctor for assessment and treatment I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions