Most postherpetic neuralgia improves gradually, while a small percentage improves less dramatically and requires treatment.
Postherpetic neuralgia is the most common complication of shingles and occurs in about 10 to 15 percent of patients with shingles, especially in older patients. In most patients, the pain improves on its own, and in some patients it disappears within weeks to months.
However, some patients have pain that lasts for more than a year, and in some cases up to 10 years or more before it goes away, and the pain is severe enough to require regular treatment. Medications such as pregabalin, gabapentin, and amitriptyline are available, as well as nerve block surgery.
Postherpetic neuralgia if there is no significant improvement, to take formal treatment as soon as possible, to avoid affecting the normal work and life, the use of medication are required under the guidance of a doctor, avoid self-medication.