I contracted shingles in July last year,and as a result of that I now have post herpetic neuralgia

[billy1945]

Having a poor immune response because of blood cancer, I am fighting a daily battle against neuralgic pain within the right side of my face and scalp. Anyone having experienced PHN , whether on the face or abdomen can attest to the severity of associated pain and sensation. So, my question is for those with facial pain..and is.. do es your symptoms lessen overnight as if the nerves involved have become dormant, and only at daylight ,and the realisation of their absence sends thoughts racing which causes a return of the pain.

I have tried amitriptyline,and gabapentin to little effect,and I am becoming increasingly concerned that this cycle cannot be broken .

I would appreciate comments on this subject.

[Morganalefaye]

The pain in my face is worse at night when I’m lying down. I take codeine and a muscle relaxant, which are the only things which help me. Amyltriptiline didn’t help at all.

[billy1945 in reply to Morganalefaye]

Thank you for your comments .I am at a loss as to how to eleviate this condition, if my symptoms are similar to yours you will have experienced the pain at the site of blistering ,and tingling / pinpricking at peripheral nerve endings, those of the dreaded trigeminal nerve serving the face. My next question is ,can you tell me which muscle relaxant have you been prescribed as this might be suitable for me also. Thanks again

[Morganalefaye in reply to billy1945]

I have been prescribed Methocarbamol but only take it rarely as I dislike some of the side effects. Personally, I get on best with diazepam, but we’re all different, so it’s trial and error.