Skin Sensations: Is It Post-Shingles Nerve Pain?

Q: Skin Sensations: Is It Post-Shingles Nerve Pain?

Hello Ms. <br>Anita： You mentioned that "the skin on my thighs feels a bit prickly when it comes into contact with my pants, and I had shingles (on my abdomen) in mid-June." It may be necessary to consider inflammation of the lumbar nerves, specifically the second and third lumba

Skin prickling

Hello, for the past week, I've been experiencing a tingling sensation on my thigh whenever it comes into contact with my pants.
I had shingles (herpes zoster) in mid-June on my abdomen, and I'm wondering if this could be a residual effect of the shingles.
Does this condition require outpatient treatment, or would increasing my intake of B vitamins be sufficient?

Anita, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/11

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Ms.
Anita: You mentioned that "the skin on my thighs feels a bit prickly when it comes into contact with my pants, and I had shingles (on my abdomen) in mid-June." It may be necessary to consider inflammation of the lumbar nerves, specifically the second and third lumbar vertebrae.
Typical discomfort symptoms associated with lumbar radiculopathy include pain radiating from the buttocks down to the lower limbs, as well as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the toes.
Postherpetic neuralgia usually occurs in the area where the shingles were present.
Evaluations for peripheral nerve issues can often be assisted by electrophysiological studies.
Nerve conduction studies assess the conduction velocity and waveform of large fiber nerves.
Electromyography evaluates muscle responses in the areas supplied by the nerves.
I recommend that you visit a neurology clinic for follow-up, preferably with a physician specializing in peripheral nerves, as they may have more experience with electromyography.
It is also advisable to supplement with B vitamins and to remind yourself to get up every half hour to perform stretching exercises to avoid nerve compression and muscle tightness that could exacerbate your symptoms.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/09/11

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning skin sensations following your recent episode of shingles (herpes zoster). The symptoms you describe, such as a prickly or tingling sensation in your thigh when it comes into contact with your pants, could indeed be related to post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), which is a common complication following shingles.

Post-herpetic neuralgia occurs when the nerve fibers are damaged during the shingles outbreak. This damage can lead to persistent pain or abnormal sensations in the area where the shingles rash occurred, even after the rash has healed. The sensations can vary widely, including sharp, stabbing pain, burning, or tingling sensations, and can sometimes be triggered by light touch or pressure, which seems to align with what you are experiencing.

Given that you had shingles in June, it is possible that the nerve damage is manifesting as these unusual sensations in your thigh. While some people may find that these symptoms resolve on their own over time, others may experience them for months or even years. The duration and intensity of post-herpetic neuralgia can vary significantly from person to person.

As for treatment, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist or a pain specialist, who can evaluate your symptoms more thoroughly. They may recommend various treatment options, including medications specifically designed to manage nerve pain, such as gabapentin or pregabalin, which can help alleviate the discomfort associated with PHN. Additionally, topical treatments like lidocaine patches or capsaicin cream may provide relief for some individuals.

In terms of vitamin B supplementation, while B vitamins are important for nerve health, they are not a primary treatment for post-herpetic neuralgia. However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in B vitamins may support overall nerve function. It’s essential to discuss any supplementation with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s appropriate for your situation.

In summary, your symptoms could be indicative of post-herpetic neuralgia following your shingles outbreak. It would be beneficial to seek medical advice to explore treatment options that can help manage your discomfort effectively. In the meantime, try to avoid any irritants that may exacerbate the sensations, and consider gentle skin care practices to soothe the affected area. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance. Wishing you a swift recovery and relief from your symptoms!

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