Postherpetic neuralgia is a common complication of shingles. It develops in the affected area where the outbreak of shingles have gone or going to disappear. It often comes in one to three months after the disappearance of shingles. It is caused by reactivation of herpes zoster. It is represented by chronic excoriating pain in the affected area that affects the quality of life. It usually affects old people above the age of 60 years. It can be managed with medicines. It can also be prevented with antiviral medicines, corticosteroids and a vaccine named zostavax. Lifestyle modification such as diet management and many more can help in the improvement of postherpetic neuralgia.
Lifestyle Changes For Postherpetic Neuralgia & Does It Reoccur?
Postherpetic neuralgia is a painful condition that appears after an episode of shingles or herpes zoster. It is a common complication of herpes zoster. It develops when the rash of shingles dry off and pain remains in the affected area. This pain is the pain of nerve fibers that are damaged due to herpes infection. It can develop at any age at any time. But it is more common in older adults above 60 years.(1)
Lifestyle changes can help in the management for postherpetic neuralgia. In order to live a healthy life and manage postherpetic neuralgia, lifestyle changes are required. They are-
Healthy And Nutritious Diet- a healthy diet is equally important to maintain healthy nutritional value when you have postherpetic neuralgia. It should include fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grain, and healthy fats. You can switch to occasional treats to satisfy your cravings. But it should be done occasionally only and your diet should contain healthy food always.(2)
Moderate Exercises- regular exercise improves the strength of the muscle, bones, and joints. It helps in the reduction of pain and other postherpetic neuralgia symptoms. It helps in achieving overall good health.(2)
Regular Sleep- a healthy lifestyle is marked by healthy sleeping habits. To achieve health benefits for any disease or medical condition, it is recommended to sleep at the same time and wake up at the same time every day even on weekends. Proper sleep cycle and sound sleep help a lot in improving the symptoms of postherpetic neuralgia.(2)
Stress Management– stress management plays a key role in achieving health goals. Stress management plays a key role in the control of pain in postherpetic neuralgia. Deep breathing and meditation have beneficiary effects on the control of stress. They help in the relaxation of mind and promote the overall sense of wellbeing. In postherpetic neuralgia, everything should be done to relieve stress.(2)
Regular Emotional And Mental Checkup- postherpetic neuralgia may lead to long term pain that may result in emotional and mental stress like depression. It may lead to an exaggeration of your sufferings. It is important to understand that many people face similar problems with postherpetic neuralgia. You can join groups who face similar problems and challenges with postherpetic neuralgia to discuss different dealing methods. You can also opt for therapies that boost up mental health.(2)
Positive Outlook- one should have a positive outlook on postherpetic neuralgia. It would help to deal with postherpetic neuralgia. It is recommended that one should have a positive outlook on this medical condition. One should focus on one’s strength rather than weakness.(2)
Does Postherpetic Neuralgia Reoccur?
Postherpetic neuralgia can reoccur. It depends on the reoccurrence and severity of shingles. It may remain for one to three months to one year. It affects the quality of life. It can cause permanent damage to the nerve. However, it is not a fatal disease.(3)
Conclusion
Postherpetic neuralgia is a medical condition that appears after rashes of shingles begin to vanish. It can reappear if shingles reappear in rare cases. It can be managed by modifying lifestyle like eating healthy, exercising regularly, moderate exercises, emotional and mental checkups, proper sleep and positive attitude towards the disease.
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