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[gennimom]

I haven't got a clue what to tell you, but I hope you figure out something that will help you feel better soon, ST!

[punchnpie]

Has your doctor mentioned Zovirax? 

My son got shingles around one side of his trunk, after he got H1N1 (and pneumonia; it was the sick season). He got Zovirax and no pain meds (I just asked, after reading the posts). I know he had some pain because he was complaining to me, but once he sucked up the macho thing, actually went to the doctor, got diagnosed, and started taking the meds, apparently he was OK.

I'm scared to death. I had chicken pox and I hear that older people can get hellacious shingles. There's a vaccine, but I'm not old enough for it yet.  I plan to be first inline the day that I'm eligible.

I'm sorry you're in so much pain, SoTrans. Please pursue all available treatments and not suffer in silence.

[southerntransplant]

Thanks for all the responses. The pain has actually started to reduce a bit. I still take one Neurontin before going to sleep, but just the one. I'm still a bit goofy during the day because of it, but generally ok. I spoke to my doctor about it and she just said to take a OTC pain reliever if it gets too bad.

We'll see.

[bluezebracat]

Oh wow, I am so so sorry that you are in the middle of a massive attack.  I had a minor attack once (lasted 3 weeks, small region of my back) and the pain was excruciating.  Sleep is extremely important, though I would bolt awake when I inadvertently touched it.   Strangely, I found more and more exercise to help--I doubt there's any scientific study to back it up, but I felt like a) it was keeping me calmer and less focused/neurotic about it and b) it was helping my body heal faster.  Keep your spirits up!  It will be over soon.  I never knew how pain could cause serious blues till I had shingles--it's important to pay attention to your mental and physical health.