Postherpetic Neuralgia
Myths
Myth: There's nothing I can do about my PHN pain. I just have to live with it.
Fact: There are many treatment options for the pain and discomfort of PHN, including medication, exercise and physical therapy. Work with your health care provider to find the right treatment for your situation.
Myth: PHN pain does not respond to medication.
Fact: In the past, researchers and health care providers thought neuropathic pain did not respond to potent pain medications such as opioids. However, current research indicates that neuropathic pain may respond to these types of medications.
Myth: Because my shingles rash has healed, my pain should go away.
Fact: Neuropathic pain may outlast the normal healing process.
Myth: Stress and anxiety cause my pain.
Fact: Stress doesn't cause PHN, but it can worsen pain. Stress is a normal part of life, but one you can manage. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, and making time for enjoyable activities can help you cope with stress.
Fact: There are many treatment options for the pain and discomfort of PHN, including medication, exercise and physical therapy. Work with your health care provider to find the right treatment for your situation.
Myth: PHN pain does not respond to medication.
Fact: In the past, researchers and health care providers thought neuropathic pain did not respond to potent pain medications such as opioids. However, current research indicates that neuropathic pain may respond to these types of medications.
Myth: Because my shingles rash has healed, my pain should go away.
Fact: Neuropathic pain may outlast the normal healing process.
Myth: Stress and anxiety cause my pain.
Fact: Stress doesn't cause PHN, but it can worsen pain. Stress is a normal part of life, but one you can manage. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, and making time for enjoyable activities can help you cope with stress.