scalp pain after shingles

[kbknapp]

i am about 5 days into a case of shingles which is on my left rib/chest area. I have started experiencing extreme sensitivity/pain in my scalp only on the left side, with shooting pain extending down to my ear. I am wondering if this new scalp/ear sensitivity is related to the shingles, either the condition or the meds. Thanks for
any help!

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

I would like to consider a possibility of a post-herpetic trigeminal neuralgia. There could be a simultaneous trigeminal nerve involvement.

Trigeminal neuralgia pain can be brought on even by touching the area with finger lightly. It may even be so severe that a light breeze brings on the pain.

Tegretol is a good drug approved for post herpetic trigeminal neuralgia. But, of course, this has to be considered after you have got yourself diagnosed.

Regards

[ms38]

Do you have burning pain with shingles? Is it in your neck at all.?

[mxbri]

Hi,  I am curious how your shingles worked out.  I have the same syptoms you did with a sore scalp after 5 days.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
Shingles are painful.  
The pain you are experiencing in your scalp and ear may be referred pain from your rib and chest shingles.
You may want to seek consult with your physician if it is worrisome.  
Good luck.