Summary: There is a 20% lifetime risk of developing shingles (herpes zoster), and it’s fairly common in older adults. Although the symptoms associated with shingles can be distressing, the pain that persists after the rash resolves, known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) can be awful. The risk of developing PHN increases as we age, and is often reported as burning, throbbing, and shooting pain. Traveling, shopping, cooking, and even dressing may all come to a halt. Hacky Clark, a successful estate attorney explains firsthand how PHN has affected his life, and PHN expert, Dr. Michael Oxman from the University of California, San Diego describes risks, pain-relieving treatments, and the importance of the shingles vaccine (Zostavax).
