Learn about Postherpetic Neuralgia Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Postherpetic Neuralgia and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Postherpetic Neuralgia

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a chronic pain condition that persists after the rash and blisters of shingles (herpes zoster) have healed. It is a complication caused by nerve damage from the varicella-zoster virus. A neurologist manages this condition through a comprehensive, multi-modal approach aimed at controlling neuropathic pain, improving function, and enhancing quality of life. Treatment is not a single procedure but a personalized management plan. This typically involves a combination of pharmacological interventions, such as specific anticonvulsants and antidepressants, along with non-pharmacological strategies like nerve blocks, topical therapies, and neuromodulation techniques. The neurologist's expertise is crucial in accurately diagnosing PHN, ruling out other causes of pain, and tailoring a stepwise treatment regimen to target the dysfunctional nerve signals effectively.

Key Highlights

    Provides targeted relief from chronic, often debilitating nerve pain.Utilizes a multi-modal approach tailored to the individual's specific pain pattern and severity.Aims to improve daily function, sleep quality, and overall quality of life.Managed by a specialist (neurologist) with expertise in complex nerve pain disorders.Focuses on both pharmacological and interventional strategies for comprehensive care.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Persistent, burning, stabbing, or aching pain in the area of a previous shingles rash that lasts for more than 90 days after the rash has healed.
  • Allodynia (pain from a light touch or clothing on the skin) in the affected dermatome.
  • Pain severe enough to interfere with sleep, daily activities, or mood.
  • Inadequate pain control with over-the-counter medications or initial antiviral therapy.
  • Diagnosis of postherpetic neuralgia confirmed by a neurologist after excluding other causes of neuropathic pain.

How to prepare

  • Detailed consultation with the neurologist to review full medical history, prior treatments, and current medications.
  • Accurate mapping and description of the pain location, character, and intensity.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (like blood thinners) only if an interventional procedure (e.g., nerve block) is planned, as per doctor's instructions.
  • No specific fasting is required for medication management plans.
  • For procedures like nerve blocks, arrange for transportation home as driving may not be advised post-procedure.

Risks & possible complications

  • Medication Side Effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, weight gain, or dry mouth from drugs like gabapentin or antidepressants.
  • Procedure-related Risks: For nerve blocks or injections - infection, bleeding, bruising, or temporary worsening of pain.
  • Incomplete Pain Relief: Not all patients achieve complete pain resolution; management often focuses on significant reduction.
  • Drug Interactions: Potential interactions with other prescribed medications.
  • Tolerance/Dependence: Rare with first-line PHN medications, but requires careful monitoring.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Medication plans require consistent dosing as prescribed; effects may take several weeks to become fully apparent.
  • After nerve block procedures, rest for the remainder of the day; pain relief may be immediate or develop over days.
  • Gradual titration of medication doses under neurologist guidance to optimize efficacy and minimize side effects.
  • Implementation of complementary therapies such as gentle physical therapy or mindfulness techniques as recommended.
  • Regular follow-up appointments with the neurologist are essential to monitor progress, adjust treatment, and manage any side effects.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (Outpatient) or 1 day (if a procedure requires brief observation)
  • checked Expected recovery time: Ongoing management; initial treatment effects seen in 2-6 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering postherpetic neuralgia in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for postherpetic neuralgia compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 54 – USD 544 0 days (Outpatient) or 1 day (if a procedure requires brief observation) ~ Ongoing management; initial treatment effects seen in 2-6 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 403 – USD 4,026 0 days (Outpatient) or 1 day (if a procedure requires brief observation) ~ Ongoing management; initial treatment effects seen in 2-6 weeks Know More

Top hospitals for Postherpetic Neuralgia in Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurology teams and experience managing patients undergoing postherpetic neuralgia.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

Had my gallbladder out last week....

Had my gallbladder out last week. The surgery itself was fine, but the first two days after were rough. Dr. Madhumitha was really on top of my pain meds, adjusting them a few times until it was manageable. She checked on me every morning and evening at MGM, which helped a lot. I'm home now and the recovery is going okay, just taking it slow.