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Shingles pain on hand and thumb

Posted , 2 users are following.

Goodwater_Betty
Goodwater_Betty

I've had shingles for about seven weeks. It was on my left arm, hand, and thumb.  The fingers were unaffected.   Most of it is gone but the worst places, on my hand and thumb, seem raw and very sore and tender now.  Is there any cream that I can use to help them heal and relieve the pain?  It's pretty intense and is so annoying.  

1 like, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Merry19451
    Merry19451 Goodwater_Betty

    Posted

    Hi Betty,

    I am sorry for your suffering.

    Also, my internet connection was down for several days, so I apologise for the delay in responding.

    As far as treating the pain of Herpes Zoster-Shingles, you realize that you have Post Herpetic Neuralgia PHN. Here are your options.

    Ansesthetic TopicslLidocaine patches 12 hours on,

    12 hours off

    Anti-neuralgia medication Lyrica or Neurontin pills

    Antidepressant Cymbalta or Venlafaxine pills

    Often, depending on the severity of the pain, you might require a combination of two or three types of pain medications.

    The above medications need to be prescribed by a neurologist or someone with expertise in pain management. Lyrica, Neurontin, Cymbalta, and Venlafaxine all are tapered up, then down.

    Cold/ice compresses

    Many Physicians lack the expertise regarding chronic pain management.

    Rest your hand and arm. The more you use it, the more pain you will have. Are you right or left hand dominant?

    Do you still struggle with the fatigue and exhaustion?

    Best wishes

    Merry Juliana

    • Goodwater_Betty
      Goodwater_Betty Merry19451

      Posted

      Thanks for these suggestions!  I am taking lyrica and venlafaxine already but I will do the cold compresses.  I noticed earlier today that it feels much better when it's on a cold surface so I will begin the compresses.  Luckily, it is on my left hand which I can rest more than my right hand. It is better overall after two months but as I begin week nine, I am getting tired of the pain on my hand and thumb.

    • Merry19451
      Merry19451 Goodwater_Betty

      Posted

      Also, Betty,

      Try elevating your arm above your heart when you can as elevation will keep the swelling down, and therefore, the pain. Sleep with a pillow on your chest with your left arm cradled on top.

      Best regards

      Merry Juliana

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