The role of corticosteroids in shingles treatment
According to Centers for Disease Control (CDC) studies, one out of five people continue to experience pain even after the blisters already cleared up. This condition is known as post-herpetic neuralgia.
Shingles is caused by the herpes zoster virus. It is usually characterized by painful skin rashes and blisters forming along the length of the affected nerve. A short and acute bout of herpes zoster virus infection results to chickenpox. However, since the virus is not eliminated from the body, a recurrence may cause shingles. Some patients, however, experienced a more aggravated condition. This is post-herpetic neuralgia. It usually manifests as persistent pain and discomfort along the area where blisters have cleared. Damage to the affected nerve by the herpes zoster virus causes this sensation. Sometimes, a patient may also feel hypersensitivity to the area during temperature changes or merely by touch. It may also feel numb, dull or itchy.
Prednisolone has been the drug of choice in the treatment of inflammation, pain and edema in patients with post-herpetic neuralgia. Researchers found that corticosteroids are also effective in preventing onset of post-herpetic neuralgia. Additionally, the earlier steroids are administered, the better are the results. Methylcobalamine, in conjunction with prednisolone, has been found to be highly effective in treating post-herpetic neuralgia.
From News 8 Austin:
Shingles is often treated with antiviral medication to reduce the severity and duration of the symptoms. They work best if started within the first three days of the rash. Doctors also sometimes recommend steroids to reduce pain, swelling and the risk of developing post-herpetic neuralgia (Source: American Academy of Family Physicians).
