Hello, I first got shingles when I was 8 years old and I am now 14. Ever since having shingles I suffered from Postherpetic Neuralgia but recently it has gotten to the point where I can't walk up the stairs without having to sit down to ease the pain and regain my breath. Does anyone have any advise how to ease the pain? Thank you!
PHN is caused by nerve dammage and is usualy very localised and the pain is in a straight line (you'll know what I mean if you have it) and to my knowlege doesn't cause shortness of breath. It very rarely affects joints.
If you have PHN your doctor will prescribe pain relief, I am taking Amitriptyline on a daily basis and Tramadol Hydrochloride on an as and when basis. Be wary, Tramadol is addictive if over used but is very effective.
Go to your doctor and get a definitive diagnosis of what is causing your pain and go from there.
Good luck.
Okay, thank you so much!
Kirsten:
I am very sorry to hear that you have PHN at such an early age. The breathless part I assume is an expression you use in dealing with the pain vs actually being breathless and I agree with the comment from Steve. You need to be referred to a pain specialist that has experience with PHN. For me at 59 and having PHN for 7 years I use a variety of medications and lifestyle methods to help with the pain. Type of clothing is the most important lifestyle choice. I would also hope given your young age and the fact that you are going through puberty might allow for change. I am not a doctor nor experienced with younger people having shingles but I have heard of cases were time heals and youth is on your side. It is very difficult to live with pain and it is important that you discuss it with your family and friends. This is not a burden you need to hide or be ashamed of - that on its own makes life even more diffiuclt. Certainly all of us on this forum know what your days are like. Take care.
jim
Thank you so much for your help!
Hi Kirsten, I am sorry that you are having such difficulties. On occasion I find myself short of breath. I do suggest talking to a specialist about this. Pain by itself can do things like raise blood pressure, etc. I have learned that it is important to finsd someone who truly understands PHN. I have even seen neurologists and specialists who do not understand the frequency of flares and the incessant need to touch the area. Ice does help me, and trying my best to accept this ocndition and connect with people who are on this site and who genuinely understand. Stay ocnnected and my best to you.
Hi! Thank you so much for your advice and I'll give using ice a go. I'll definitely see a specialist or neurologists and see what they can do