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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Painful Shingles Be Treated?

My mom (will be 80 May 1) was diagnosed with Shingles on Friday, although the pain started on Monday. The rash did not appear until Friday. She was prescribed Valacyclovir HCL 1GM Tabs 3x daily for 7 days. Also Gabapentin 100 MG caps for pain 3x daily as needed. She started the Valacyclovir on Friday but did not begin the Gabapentin until Saturday when the pain became intolerable. The pain stays pretty constant and . even with the meds. Is there something other we can do to ease the pain? She s generally pretty tough but this is kicking her butt and its difficult seeing her in this much pain.
Mon, 30 Apr 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

Because of her age, the pain will be difficult to treat. She really needs to see her doctor who knows her medical history to discuss what pain medication may be safe for her.

Often, short-term narcotics are used, but at her age, this may increase her risk of falls. Take her to see her doctor soon.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Kathy Robinson
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How Can Painful Shingles Be Treated?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Because of her age, the pain will be difficult to treat. She really needs to see her doctor who knows her medical history to discuss what pain medication may be safe for her. Often, short-term narcotics are used, but at her age, this may increase her risk of falls. Take her to see her doctor soon. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Kathy Robinson