Why can't I get pain relief for Shingles?

[courtnado]

Hello, I was diagnosed with shingles 10 days ago when I went to ER with debilitating pain.  Dermatome is L1 I think they said.  I am having a difficult time managing the pain which is severe and yet my primary care doctor prescribed a very small dose of hydrocodone (1 every 6 hours) which at least took the edge off the pain. The prescription is done and he tells me just to take Advil now.  I am confused as to why a Dr. would be reluctant to prescribe pain medications for something as painful as this condition?  Should I be seeing a specialist of some sort?  I have been taking NSAIDS like candy and very little relief.  I cannot leave the house.  I just lay in bed and moan most of the day.
Thanks

[courtnado]

thanks everyone, I finally got my psychiatrist of all people to prescribe Neurontin and I am praying it works asap.  The pain is subsiding during the day but in the morning it is so debilitating I can't get out of bed.  Thanks again!

[marycarmel]

I've had them but caught it within 48 hours so my primary care put me on acyclovir, which cuts the duration as well as the aeverity.  I think you might be too far in for an antiviral.  Narcotics aren't the best way to treat shingles pain.  Ask for neurontin or lyrica.  Cymbalta may work but that takes longer to kixk in.  Treating shingles pain is pretty basic.  If your doctor doesn't take your pain seriously, you might want to look at finding a new doctor.

[Totie]

my mom had them all over her back...

However she never told anyone..She just let it run its course..When I told her doctor about it (she had an apt), he replied, "she is one tough woman to not tell anyone".

[trixy71]

Hi Courtnado, maybe ask your doctor for Lyrica or Cymbalta, those tend to help with the nerve pain better than opiates do, and the doctor is more likely to prescribe those than more hydrocodone. Can't hurt to ask and it may give you significant relief. Good luck to you.