Question 1

any tips on pain relief for shingles/herpes zoster?

Accepted Answer

Several options: For acute shingles (rash lesions present) you should take an anti-viral medication like Acyclovir or Valtrex to treat the illness.  You can take nsaids like Motrin or aleve for pain.  If you have pain that continues after the lesions resolve, topical Lidocaine and a neuropathic pain medication like lyrica, (pregabalin) neurontin, or Cymbalta may help.

Question 2

what do doctors think is the top pain relief for shingles?

Accepted Answer

Lyrica (pregabalin): Many meds are available , i like lyrics , and if possible to wear a Lidocaine patch at the site .If pain persisted an injection by a pain dr could be considered.

Question 3

what pain relief is available for shingles that doesn't involve sleepiness?

Accepted Answer

Topical agents: There are topical agents (gels, ointments, creams) such as capsacin and lidocine as well as other formulations that do not typically cause sedation.

Question 4

an elderly friend recently had shingles-he took antivirals fo13 days as prescribed but still has bad pain- what's a natural pain relief regimen?

Accepted Answer

Shingles pain: Not aware of a natural approac. Try 800mg Ibuprofen three times a day and if not helping within a week you need to ask your doctor for stronger pain meds. Shingles pain can be terrible and medical treatment can help most patients.

Question 5

how can you get relief from shingles?

Accepted Answer

Shingles : First of course is getting on the appropriate anti-viral medication to treat the underlying cause of the shingles. Then based upon the nerve pain or itch there are numerous pain medications and nerve pain or anti-inflammatory medications that your physician can discuss with you.

Question 6

how can i get some relief from shingles pain?

Accepted Answer

Medication,accupunct: Shingles pain after the acute incident can transition into post-herpetic neuralgia.  It is a very painful condition. Typical pain killers  may help somewhat, but nerve calming meds  may be. More effective. Lyrica, (pregabalin) Cymbalta are exmples. Acupuncture may also help.  Topical application of Lidocaine  is also an option.  Treating it early and aggressively is  best. You should see a doctor.

Question 7

the dr started me on gabapentin today, i've had shingles for 2 weeks now.how long before i can expect relief? the pain is unbearable.

Accepted Answer

Gabapentin: Gabapentin or Neurontin (gabapentin) works at the brain or cortical level to enhance GABA and reduce nerve pain. It can take 3 to 4 weeks before full effect as it is a weaker mood stabilizer and pain control.  You may need to your acute pain which short term pain meds per your physician.

Question 8

how can i get relief from shingles itching under arm?

Accepted Answer

Capsaicin: Topical capsaicin can be helpful.

Question 9

the nerve pain is a result of the shingles which she got 2-1/2 months ago. the rash is gone, but severe nerve pain lingers. what can she do to alleviate this excruciating pain. she has taken lyrica for 2-1/2 weeks with little to no relief.

Accepted Answer

See pain doc: At 87, medication doses may need adjustments. While Lyrica is good for shingles pain, if it is dosed correctly, topicals, injections, gabapentin, and other options will help overcome her suffering. See a doctor who specializes in pain management to learn more.

Question 10

these symptoms are after having shingles 18 months ago. if i could get some relief from the itching and the eye irritation i would feel a lot better.  i,ve tried every cream on the market and they only give temporary relief?

Accepted Answer

Need to examine: What you described suggests sicca syndrome, i.e. dry mucus membranes. It would be prudent to see your doctor so that she/he may ascertain if you need to see a specialist. It is not feasible to provide a meaningful opinion without examining you.
Wish you good health!

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Doctor answers about:

Pain relief from shingles

A member asked:

Any tips on pain relief for shingles/herpes zoster?

A member asked:

What do doctors think is the top pain relief for shingles?

A member asked:

What pain relief is available for shingles that doesn't involve sleepiness?

A member asked:

An elderly friend recently had shingles-he took antivirals fo13 days as prescribed but still has bad pain- what's a natural pain relief regimen?

A member asked:

How can you get relief from shingles?

A member asked:

How can i get some relief from shingles pain?

A member asked:

The dr started me on gabapentin today, i've had shingles for 2 weeks now.how long before i can expect relief? the pain is unbearable.

A member asked:

How can i get relief from shingles itching under arm?

A member asked:

The nerve pain is a result of the shingles which she got 2-1/2 months ago. the rash is gone, but severe nerve pain lingers. what can she do to alleviate this excruciating pain. she has taken lyrica for 2-1/2 weeks with little to no relief.

A member asked:

These symptoms are after having shingles 18 months ago. if i could get some relief from the itching and the eye irritation i would feel a lot better. i,ve tried every cream on the market and they only give temporary relief?

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