Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN): Care Instructions

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is nerve pain that can happen after you've had shingles. Shingles is a rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles can attack the nerves under the skin, causing irritation and damage.

Even after the shingles rash heals, damaged nerves can keep sending pain signals. Medicines and self-care can help, even if the pain has lasted a long time. It’s important to take your medicines and focus on soothing your nerves so they can heal.

For many people, the pain will go away over time.

Your doctor may prescribe medicines to help with nerve pain. Take your medicine exactly as prescribed. Some nerve pain medicines can make you:

• Feel sleepy.
• Feel dizzy.
• Have balance problems.

When you're taking medicine for PHN:

• Don't drive until you know how your medicine affects you.
• Don't stop taking a medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

PHN can make your skin very sensitive. Here are some ways to help protect your skin.

• Wear soft, loose clothing.
• Don’t wear scratchy fabrics, such as wool.
• Sleep with a light sheet instead of a heavy blanket.
• Put cool packs wrapped in a thin towel on your skin for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Don’t take very hot showers if heat makes pain worse.

Pain can make it hard to get enough sleep. Here are some ways to help you get better sleep.

• Keep a regular bedtime.
• Keep the room cool and dark.
• Don’t have caffeine late in the day.
• Ask your doctor if you can take your pain medicine at night.

Stress can make nerve pain feel worse. Here are some ways to reduce stress.

• Take breaks during the day.
• Ask for help with chores.
• Practice deep breathing.
• Listen to relaxing music.
• Meditate or try guided relaxation.
• Spend time with people who can help support you.
• Talk to your manager about your workload.

Gentle movement can help your nerves and muscles. To do this:

• Start with 5 to 10 minutes of walking or stretching.
• Rest when you need to.
• Don't push through severe pain.

Long-lasting pain can affect mental health. PHN may make you feel:

• Cranky.
• Anxious.
• Depressed.
• Hopeless.

Many people feel like this when they're in pain. Talk to your doctor or a counselor if you feel this way. They can help you get treatment and find support.