Living With Facial Pain After Shingles
For many patients, shingles is a temporary illness. But for others, the virus leaves behind lasting nerve damage known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). This condition can cause severe burning, stabbing, or hypersensitive pain that persists long after the rash disappears.
Patricia experienced this firsthand.
After developing shingles, she lived with relentless facial nerve pain for nearly five years. Daily activities became difficult, and like many PHN patients, she struggled to find lasting relief.
Searching for Answers
After years of discomfort, Patricia began researching treatment options and discovered peripheral nerve surgeon Dr. Demetrio Aguila.
She learned that specialized evaluation can identify specific nerves responsible for chronic pain — something traditional treatments often overlook.
A Complex Case of PHN
During Patricia’s evaluation and surgery, Dr. Aguila discovered her anatomy was unusual.
Most people have two nerves in the affected area, but Patricia had four — including extra nerve branches and grooves in the bone that contributed to her persistent pain.
Because of this, she ultimately required two procedures to fully address all pain sources.
Finding Relief Through Peripheral Nerve Surgery
Following her surgeries, Patricia experienced dramatic improvement.
Her pain resolved, swelling was minimal, and she was able to return to normal life without the constant discomfort that had affected her for years.
Her experience highlights the importance of specialized nerve evaluation for patients with persistent facial pain after shingles.
A Message of Hope for PHN Patients
Patricia now shares her story to encourage others living with postherpetic neuralgia not to lose hope.
Even if pain has persisted for years, effective treatment options may still exist — especially when the exact nerves causing pain are identified and treated.