Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a condition characterised by persistent nerve pain following an outbreak of shingles, which is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus responsible for chickenpox). This condition can lead to significant discomfort, affecting quality of life long after the shingles rash has healed.

Causes of Post-Herpetic Neuralgia:
Age: The risk of developing PHN increases significantly with age, particularly in individuals over 60.

Severity of Shingles Outbreak: A severe initial shingles outbreak increases the likelihood of PHN. Shingles Location: Shingles outbreaks on the face or torso are more likely to lead to PHN.

Compromised Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems, due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or cancer, are at a higher risk.

Delayed Treatment of Shingles: Late treatment or lack of treatment for shingles can increase the risk and severity of PHN.
Treatments for Post-Herpetic Neuralgia Dr. Tushar Can Offer:

Medications: Anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin or pregabalin) and antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) to manage nerve pain.

Topical Treatments: Capsaicin cream or lidocaine patches to numb the affected area and provide pain relief.

Epidural injection: A procedure used to deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space around the spinal cord to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with conditions like post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). It aims to provide targeted pain relief by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals from reaching the brain.

Nerve neuromodulation: A treatment option for PHN involving the implantation of a device near the nerve. This delivers electrical impulses to the nerves, disrupting pain signals and providing relief from PHN symptoms. It offers long-term pain management by modulating nerve activity and improving overall quality of life for affected individuals.

Nerve Blocks: Local anaesthetic injections directly into the nerves affected by PHN to provide temporary relief from pain.

Sympathetic block: Lumbar sympathetic block or stellate ganglion block, is a procedure used to block sympathetic nerve activity in the affected area, often the lower back or neck, to alleviate pain associated with PHN. By interrupting the transmission of pain signals along sympathetic nerves, sympathetic blocks can provide temporary relief from PHN symptoms, including burning pain, sensitivity, and discomfort.

Dr. Tushar's Approach: Under Dr. Tushar's care, a comprehensive treatment plan will be developed, focusing not only on symptom relief but also on improving your overall quality of life. With a combination of advanced treatment options, personalised care, and supportive therapy, Dr. Tushar is dedicated to helping patients overcome the challenges of post-herpetic neuralgia and regain their comfort and confidence.