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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Pain Due To Shingles On The Back And Breast Be Treated?

Hi, I am 77 years old female and I have shingles on my right back and breast. It has been over 3 weeks and during the day the pain is now much less, but it is pretty bad AT NIGHT. I am taking gabapentin 100 mg 3 times a day. What can I do to lessen the pain at night so I can sleep? Thank you Kira
Wed, 27 Jun 2018
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

Shingles may sometimes cause shooting pain that may impair your sleep. Gabapentin is the preferred drug and most cases respond well to Gabapentin. If you are experiencing pain even with Gabapentin. Step up analgesics may be required. You can take Tramdol which is a good alternative. In addition to analgesic(pain killer) action it has got sedative effect which might help you to get good sleep. If oral pain killer doesn’t provide relieve you can take Ketamine sublingual preparation after discussing with your physician.

Hope I have answered your query.
Let me know if I can assist you further.


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How Can Pain Due To Shingles On The Back And Breast Be Treated?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Shingles may sometimes cause shooting pain that may impair your sleep. Gabapentin is the preferred drug and most cases respond well to Gabapentin. If you are experiencing pain even with Gabapentin. Step up analgesics may be required. You can take Tramdol which is a good alternative. In addition to analgesic(pain killer) action it has got sedative effect which might help you to get good sleep. If oral pain killer doesn’t provide relieve you can take Ketamine sublingual preparation after discussing with your physician. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.