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Neurology (Expert Forum)
pain from shinles (intense and ongoing)
This forum is for questions and support regarding neurology issues such as: Alzheimer's Disease, ALS, Autism, Brain Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Pain, Epilepsy, Fibromyalgia, Headaches, MS, Neuralgia, Neuropathy, Parkinson's Disease, RSD, Sleep Disorders, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury.
pain from shinles (intense and ongoing)
by BPeters, Nov 26, 1998 12:00AM
I contract shingles (herpes zoster) in late May and it wasn't diagnosed within early stages.
I have since had severe pain. I have received intense physio therapy that seems to aggrevate the
symptoms. I had the outbreak on my middle left chest area and the pain is affecting my left chest area
left arm, left side of my neck and face. The pain was so bad I thought I was having
a heart attack. After many months, many pills, continued physio I have now been recommended to
an international medicine/rehabilitation Dr. for further examinations. My family Dr. thinks I may have
developed Thoracic outlet syndrome. Any suggestions on what else I can do to
help myself deal with this pain and get back on my feet. I'm self employed and no
work means no pay. Thanks.
Dear B. Peters,
Just a couple of thoughts. The management of shingles (postherpetic pain) is very difficult. Some medications that have proven effective include amitryptyline and carbamazepine. Capsaicin ointment may also provide some additional relief. If you have not tried any of these medications, I would discuss a trial with your doctor. Thoracic outlet syndrome desciribes a number of anatomic anomalies that occur in the lateral neck region, which may under certain circumstances compress the nerves, arteries, and veins in that region. The primary neurolgical symptoms includes slight wasting and weakness of certain hand muscles, intermittent aching of the arm and hand (especially on the side where your pinky finger is located). Shoulder and arm pain is also a frequent complaint. The discomfort is described as aching. Diagnostic tests include Xrays of the neck and EMG/NCS. Treatment is usually conservative wit local heat, alagesics, muscle relaxants, and an excercise program to strenghten the shoulder muscles. Perhaps a visit to a neurologist may be more appropriate than an internist. Discuss this with your primary doctor. If you are interested in getting an appointment at CCF call 1-800-CCf-CARE. Good Luck.
