Herpetic neuralgia is a neuropathic pain syndrome that accompanies a herpes zoster episode. It is due to nerve damage due to the proliferation of varicella zoster in the spinal cord ganglia with subsequent alteration of the function of the nervous system.

Usually, neuralgia subsides with the healing of the herpetic rash within a few weeks, but sometimes it persists for some time, even years, switching to post-herpetic neuralgia.

Post-herpetic neuralgia has an impact on the overall quality of life of the patient, as it affects the quality of sleep, his psychology and daily activities.

The risk of installing post-herpetic neuralgia after an episode of herpes zoster increases with the age of the patient and the severity of the disease during the acute phase.

Post-Herpetic Neuralgia

Post-herpetic neuralgia is the most common complication of herpes zoster and usually occurs in the area of the skin where the rash pro-existed. It is characterized by a caustic, acute permeable pain that lasts for 3 months or longer after the herpes' rash. It may be associated with increased sensitivity of the lesion area even in light touch and in some cases with increased sweating in the affected area due to local autonomic nervous system dysfunction.

The pain of post-herpetic neuralgia can have significant negative effects on daily life, causing insomnia, depression, fatigue, difficulty in dressing and bathing, and loss of individual independence. It is a syndrome of chronic peripheral neuropathic pain and needs specialized treatment.

All Programs of “Veresies” Clinic are approved and supervised by the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (CNAA).

CONDACT US