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Got shingles 3 weeks ago

Posted , 2 users are following.

barbara30577
barbara30577

It started with tingling on the tip of my tongue, lower lip and chin. I then got earache followed by toothache. My mouth inside and out and my chin were blistered. My question is, my lip is still tingling and numb and feels lumpy, my teeth feel 'strange' and I am terrified it is going to come back. Or is it early days yet? I have reduced my pain killers to once a day at night, if I can manage. I just feel so run down. I was 70 last week, am I expecting too much of myself?

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Ellie1943
    Ellie1943 barbara30577

    Posted

    Hi Barbara,

     It's probably PHN or "post herpetic neuralgia". It can go on for some time but see your Doc again if it's bad as he/she can probably prescribe a strong pain killer for this problem. I take Tramadol anyway for Osteo Arthritis so just have to take it more often. I was advised by a fellow sufferer on this website to "take it easy on myself"!  I find I need to lie down and rest every day in the afternoon to get me through the day. It does help. The virus is active for awhile with Shingles I believe and we need to rest so our bodies can recover as in most viral illnesses. I've had several lots of rash and pain since it started at Easter this year. Did you get anti viral medication from your Doc? It shortens the length of the illness in some people but needs to be taken within 72 hours of first rash.

     You probably are expecting too much of yourself, I was too. Patience is needed with this illness and from your Doc too I think!

     I found some help and Empathy from other sufferers on this website. Keep following and listen to others, it does help understand this B awful illness!

     Regards Ellie. Age 72

    • barbara30577
      barbara30577 Ellie1943

      Posted

      Yes I did get the anti viral med from the dr. But no advice or anything. I battled on alone for days with the ear and tooth ache as my husband was away. When he came home I went to bed for nearly 4 days. All the scabs have gone now. I guess, like you said, rest and time. Thanks Ellie.
  • barbara30577
    barbara30577

    Posted

    My concern is that my lip and the tip of my tongue are still tingling/numb since the onset of the shingles. Is this normal? Will it all go back to normal eventually? The deafness seems to have gone from my ear now which is good.

    Thanks.

    • Ellie1943
      Ellie1943 barbara30577

      Posted

      Hi Barbara, I think it should get back to normal but I'm still battling it myself. PHN as I said before. My GP did not give any advice either, that's why I came on here. I doubt if the doc's know either unless they've had shingles themselves as it seems to affect different people in different ways. You probably need some medicine for the nerve pain and after effects which you can only get at the Surgery. If you go back try asking them if there's anything else you should be doing to help. Please let us know if you get a useful answer. Best Wishes Ellie.  sad

      PS, I live alone all the time and understand how frightened you must have been. I imagined all the worst scenario's. Best see your GP again.

    • barbara30577
      barbara30577 Ellie1943

      Posted

      I will do that Ellie and let you know. I hope you have good neighbours and family near by that support you. God bless, Barbara.
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