Definitions

Postherpetic neuralgia


Overview

Postherpetic neuralgia is pain from a shingles rash that lasts long after the shingles rash and blisters disappear. Shingles is caused by the chickenpox virus.

Symptoms

Postherpetic neuralgia pain can be severe, interfering with sleep and appetite. It mostly affects people over age 60.

Treatments

Medicated skin patches and oral drugs may help.