Hi All,

My friend has been diagnosed with oral cancer. He is presently undergoing chemotherapy for the same.He has just recovered from shingles which affected one side of his face and suffers from Postherpetic neuralgia . The doctor has scheduled the next round of chemotherapy. I would like to know if we go through with the treatment , will there be an increase in the neuralgia or any adverse effects to the nerves. I would also like to know if there are any treatments to reduce neuralgia?

Neuralgia is extremeiy painful by itself, with out the additions of other symptoms your friend suffers from, I have suffered myself.Its like your whole head has severve tooth ache.You can take regular painkillers i.e.. paracetamol,ibruprofen, depending on what other medication your friend is taking, you need to consult a doctor, just to be sure it's safe to do so.I found a warmed towel or hot water bottle wrapped in a towel gave some relief, however some people say something frozen i.e.. a bag of peas wrapped in a towel gives them relief, it just depends on the person.. hot or cold.

Eventually it will gradually go on its own.I think you should visit your doctor to find out the effects of the chemo' on the neuralgia and also speak about perscribed pain killers that will relief the pain, it may be that regular over the counter pain killers will,in my experience,not be strong enough to have little or no effect for the pain that your friend is obviously suffering from.

Stay strong, visit your doctor as soon as possible, take a list of questions you need answers too.