Post Herpetic Neuralgia Treatment in Ahmedabad
Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) is a type of nerve pain that lingers after a shingles infection. While shingles typically resolve in a few weeks, some individuals continue to experience sharp, burning, or aching pain long after the rash has cleared. This chronic condition can significantly impair quality of life, making even gentle touch or temperature changes unbearable.
If you or someone you care about is suffering from ongoing nerve pain following shingles, Dr. Megha Shah, a leading pain specialist in Ahmedabad, offers advanced, customised, and non-surgical Post Herpetic Neuralgia treatment in Ahmedabad. Her specialised care helps patients regain comfort, mobility, and peace of mind.
What is Post Herpetic Neuralgia?
Post Herpetic Neuralgia is a painful condition resulting from shingles (Herpes Zoster), triggered by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Once the shingles rash heals, some people, particularly older adults, develop PHN, which is nerve pain that persists for more than three months.
This pain is neuropathic, meaning it stems from damaged or irritated nerves, rather than a visible injury. For some, the discomfort may fade over time. But for others, it becomes chronic and disruptive, affecting sleep, mood, and daily functioning.
Causes of Post Herpetic Neuralgia
Risk factors include:
- Age – Most common in people over 60
- Severe shingles rash – An extensive rash and intense acute pain raise the risk
- Delayed antiviral treatment – Early intervention can reduce risk
- Immunosuppression – Individuals with a compromised immune system face a higher risk of infections and related health issues.
Symptoms of Post Herpetic Neuralgia
PHN symptoms generally appear in the same region as the previous shingles rash, commonly affecting one side of the torso, face, or neck. The pain can vary in intensity, and may present as:
- Burning or stabbing pain
- Throbbing or aching sensation
- Extreme sensitivity to touch (allodynia)
- Tingling or numbness
- Itching or skin irritation
- Sensitivity to temperature changes
Diagnostic Procedures & Tests for PHN
Diagnosis of Post Herpetic Neuralgia primarily involves a clinical evaluation by a pain specialist, based on the patient’s medical history, symptom duration, and physical examination.
At Anamay Pain Clinic, Dr. Megha Shah may use the following methods:
- Medical History Review – Assessing past shingles episodes, symptom patterns, and current pain levels.
- Neurological Examination – Evaluating skin sensitivity, reflexes, and motor function to identify nerve damage.
- Pain Mapping – Documenting areas of hypersensitivity and pain distribution.
- Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) – Measuring nerve response to stimuli (heat, cold, vibration).
- Diagnostic Nerve Blocks – Injecting local anaesthetics to confirm specific nerve involvement.
Post Herpetic Neuralgia Treatment Options
Dr. Megha Shah, a renowned PHN specialist in Ahmedabad, provides a multimodal and patient-centric approach to PHN treatment, focusing on pain reduction, nerve healing, and improved function.
Medications
- Anticonvulsants like gabapentin and pregabalin help calm overactive nerves.
- Antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline or duloxetine) reduce neuropathic pain signals.
- Topical treatments like lidocaine patches and capsaicin cream help ease discomfort by delivering targeted pain relief to affected areas.
- Analgesics – For mild cases, non-opioid pain relief options can help manage discomfort effectively.
Nerve Blocks
Injection of local anaesthetics and corticosteroids near the affected nerves helps block pain signals and reduce inflammation. This is an effective non-surgical PHN treatment for moderate to severe cases.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
RFA uses heat to interrupt nerve transmission and is beneficial for patients with refractory PHN who do not respond to medication.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS therapy involves mild electrical impulses delivered through the skin to block pain signals, offering safe and drug-free relief.
Psychological Support
Living with PHN – Patient Tips
- Stay active with light exercises to maintain mobility.
- Use soft clothing to minimise skin irritation.
- Avoid extreme temperatures that may trigger pain.
- Practice stress reduction techniques like yoga, breathing exercises, or meditation.
- Adopt a healthy sleep schedule to combat fatigue and improve healing.
Why Choose Dr. Megha Shah for PHN Treatment in Ahmedabad?
The clinic is recognized as a leading pain management clinic in Ahmedabad, offering the latest non-surgical PHN treatments that are both safe and highly effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
PHN can persist for weeks, months, or even years following the resolution of a shingles rash, depending on individual health factors.
While PHN may not always be fully curable, effective treatments can significantly reduce pain and improve quality of life.
Yes, PHN is more prevalent in individuals over 60 due to age-related nerve vulnerability.
Medications, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation are considered highly effective non-surgical options for PHN.
If pain continues three months after shingles, consult a specialist for timely and effective treatment.
Condition We Treat
TESTIMONIAL
What Our Patients Say
I was experiencing severe knee pain and was unable to walk properly. I felt intense discomfort while sitting down and standing up. After consulting with Megha and following the procedure she suggested, I felt a great sense of relief my pain is now completely gone. She also recommended some exercises that have helped me stay fit and active.
I consulted Dr. Megha Madam for my mother's pain on back side of the chest after treatment of cancer. She is very humble and kind. My mother got result in only month after started treatment and still she hasn't felt back pain due to pain management therapy. I highly recommend Dr. Megha Madam for pain management.
I consulted Dr Megha Shah for my knee pain post trauma. I consulted many doctors for the same but there was no result. She has given PRP treatment for my knee which has helped me a lot by improving my daily activity and pain has reduced significantly. She is very calm and empathize your pain and truly understands what one has to say. I truly recommend Dr Megha . I am really thankful.
