I'm wondering if anyone has any idea how long PHN usually hangs on before it runs its course?

I have been affected since 2009. I have tried every protocol available and have been seen by 28 doctors. They all say the same thing “take your drugs” which I loathe. I have other chronic pain problems as well but PHN pain is very difficult to manage. Gel ice packs do help.

I had shingles 11/2016... the rash was of short duration; however the PHN is still with me... right, lower quadrant as well as the right back... the pain calms, then gets angry and really hurts like now - 2:31 a.m. and that's why I'm asking how long can it last. My doctor says it varies with the person... so I try to ignore it - have tried gabapentin which had no effect. I agree with a prior response... drugs don't seem to be the answer... so I will continue to "try" to ignore the pain and maybe one day it really will heal itself... I have to hope since there does not seem to be a medical solution.

I took myself off all drugs as the side affects were not worth it. My doctor put me on a vegan diet & I take immune support supplements. PHN happens because of a break down of your immune system. Build up your immune system & it will suppress the virus. Get rid of stress in your life too! The drugs will only damage your body even more long term. Find a naturopathic who will work with you. It’s hard work but worth it..

Wyzwolfe, Your submission is 2 1/2 yrs old. But if you still have the PHN, you might want to check out brookskin.com and read the testimonials. It,s an all herbal application. Good luck.
gbrooks

Hi all... I've had PHN for a year. Every site/doctor I have spoken to says it can last months or years, no one gives a specific amount of time. I have also tried to find this answer with no luck. I have tried Topamax, Lyrica, Carbatrol and Carbatrol + Baclofen to ease pain, but none have worked. The only thing that sometimes takes the edge off is Percocet, but it makes me so sick that usually I'm sobbing by the time I take it. Acupuncture didn't work, neither did Lidocaine cream. I don't know if Capsaicin/Qtenza patch would work, only since my PHN has moved to my face and is in/near my eye. I'd love answers, too!

I am going into my fourth year with PHN. I am now trying accupuncture, have had three treatments and have found some relief. This Dr. Yang does it a different way than just sticking needles in you. He used 23 needles just in my back, seven in my ear, ect. These are then hooked up to a machine and you can feel them working. The only problem is that Medicare does not cover these treatments, so I am limited financially as to how many I can afford, as they are not cheap.

My mother has had PHN after having shingles almost two years ago! It is so painful for her she can't even stand the slightest touch. Her doctor has no answer as to how long it will last. Some meds help alittle. She takes lyrica, hydrocodone, a sleeping pill, and uses the lidocaine patch, and ibuprofen seems to help. She went to a pain management clinic but did not get much relief. The pain is so severe that she has trouble walking.She said the only time it does not hurt is when she is asleep. Sometime I think that it will never go away! We pray every day that it will. I hope and pray yours does also. I hope this answered a few of your questions.

Wish I could help. Have know idea what PHN is. Dave (mpvt) or Robert_325 are very smart guys. They could give you a wealth of information... Sorry I could not be of more assistance... Good Luck and God Bless...

try this link it may be of some help. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PHN