Postherpetic Neuralgia
Tramadol 50 mg For Treating Postherpetic Neuralgia
Postherpetic neuralgia is a nerve damage caused by varicella zoster virus. It is one of the complications of herpes zoster or shingles. Shingles disappear after a few weeks but if the pain persists after, it is considered as a postherpetic neuralgia. The dermatomic area of the skin is damaged in which the nerves send signals into the brain causing severe pain that lasts for years. This pain can greatly affect the individual’s appetite and daily work.
Higher incidence of postherpetic neuralgia occurs in older individuals, primarily over the age of 60, and those who have low immune system. Signs and symptoms include the appearance of scarring from the herpes zoster vesicles, severe and chronic pain, and in most cases, muscle weakness and paralysis. The pain is characterized as burning, sharp, and deep. Due to severe pain, they cannot tolerate even a touch of a light object in their skin. Often, postherpetic neuralgia causes numbness and itchiness.
Laboratory studies show an abnormality in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Viral culture and antibody determination are other laboratory tests to be done to determine a positive herpes zoster disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can as well show lesions in the brain stem and cervical cord.
Most of the treatment basically focuses on alleviating pain and promoting comfort measures to the patients with postherpetic neuralgia.