Postherpetic Neuralgia (Shingles) nerve damage

Hello, I actually developed shingles after receiving a radio frequency ablation for chronic pain issues and nerve damage in my spine. I am not sure why this happened, but I understand my case is rare. I am in my mid-thirties and living in Colorado where marijuana is legal, and while I do not use anything that alters my mind at all - I do utilize the topical creams and they work better than any other compound cream or oils I've ever used! My favorite topical for nerve pain that helped me with my usual nerve pain, and after the ablation with the shingles is from a company called NectarBee and the product is called Nerve Salve and in CO a store called "The Green Solution" sells it. Unfortunately you cannot buy these products online, but I wanted to mention it just in case you lived in a state that has dispensaries. I cannot imagine living with shingles for a decade or more, I am sorry you have to go through that! I hope you find something that helps!!

Hello @laceydmw and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Thank you for joining the conversation and offering to share what has worked for you with your nerve pain. How long have you had shingles and how long did it take you to find this topical that is working well for you?

I developed what could be shingles after my second virus shot. They said it could be brought on by stress. I also had the old and new shingles vaccine. The area involved is my forehead, eye and ear on the right side.

I, wish I never took that vaccine. After my second dose I was sick for 4 months. Had to have therapy. Went to neurologist, and other doctors to find out what was going on. The only doctor that believed me was the doctor who was involved with my therapy. He researched as well as I did, after the fact, that the Shingrix Vaccine was the reason why weird things happened to my body. So, now I will not take a vaccine again, especially the experimental Covid Vaccine. My motto is do your research FIRST before getting a vaccine. Sorry, but that is my opinion, from my own experience. It affected my whole body including my legs where I could barely walk.

I'm adding myself to the list of those with PHN. My shingles were in 2018, and I've had PHN ever since. It's my left torso where the rash was, which I consider the worst pain of my life. I'd rather have a baby alone in a field than have shingles again. After the rash healed, I got both Shingrix shots (appropriately spaced apart), as I think if I ever got the rash again I'd think of suicide. Nothing helps PHN, I find. Prolonged sitting aggravates it. I refuse to take Gabapentin, which I did take during the outbreak, probably 800 mg a day. Can't really remember. It turned me into a zombie, my balance was off, I couldn't speak properly or find the correct words, and I felt like a big slug. I guess it helped the pain, as I got through it. So I'm hoping I"ll read something in this thread that will give me an idea of what to try. Acupuncture did not help and neither did pain shots in my spine. I'm 78, which might be why I got PHN. Ageing can suck in many ways, but it beats the alternative!

Hello @glenbard,

It has been a while since you last posted about Shingle's damage to your eye. I was wondering if you got a second opinion on this problem.

I would appreciate hearing how you are doing. Will you post an update as you are able?

Welcome @melaniekerena7. i understand that you've been dealing with painful shingles for over 3 months now. I'm tagging you on this discussion so that you can talk with other members who've been there like @hopeful33250 @mjj @laceydmw @glenbard @2011panc and others.

Melanie, where is the shingles outbreak for you? What treatment have you tried to relieve the pain?

Hello @melaniekerena7, I would also like to welcome you to Connect. I am so sorry to hear of your continuing Shingles pain. If you could share a bit more with us as to the location of the Shingles outbreak and any medications that you have been prescribed that would help us to support you during this time.

In September 2020 I had a very minor lesion of Shingles on the lower, right side of my back. Unfortunately, I waited about five days before seeing the doctor. My doctor prescribed an anti-viral medication and medication for the pain. Have you also had the anti-viral medication? I also took Gabapentin which is specific for nerve pain.

Even though that episode is over 6 months ago, I still have tingling and pain in that area. My doctor surmises that I probably have some permanent nerve damage. It seems to get activated by stress, lack of sleep or, other environmental factors such as a change in the weather, etc.

I have found that a really good first aid for Shingles pain is an ice pack. I did not find that heat worked all that well. However, an ice pack numbs that area for a good long time and keeps you more comfortable.

What pain meds are you taking currently?

I just found ur reply .i do not have a computer.plus im comp.illiterate.I didnt see a Dr For 2 mos. I did the ice pk.alot,cryd alot.Went 60 miles east to find a good Dr.Gen.Lyrica.But like in my past i couldnt speak well taking it studdering. Its been like 5 mos.Its right under my breast& in it & at times before it would go around my back.Tests cost $$.So when im done payin that visit ill go back.He wanted me back a wk. Later.took Amtrak to see him.I do not get any sleep maybe 3hrs if lucky. I waiting for records ,as i may actually ask something for sleep.the pain im use to.Its the no sleep .I appreciate your knowledge.Gabapenton,makes me studder though for nerve endings.i dont feel either of that is good( to studder,cant speak) nope,Godbless Thanks for your time.

Hello everyone please I need help have been suffering from hotness of the foot and a warm like movement under the foot please anyone who can help me on what to do