There is no standard treatment for PHN. Different therapies work for different people. However, there are some things you can do as a caregiver to make your loved one with PHN more comfortable:

• Everyone responds differently to pain medications used for PHN. Call the doctor if the pain medicine is not working.



• Get a referral to a pain specialist or neurologist if your doctor is not familiar with all the possible treatments for PHN.



• Call the doctor if new problems occur; some medications for pain may have side effects.



• Encourage the person with PHN to wear loose clothing, or minimal clothing if clothes are uncomfortable.



• Constant pain is very stressful. Find ways to help relieve stress and divert attention away from the pain such as meditation or listening to relaxing music.



• If depression becomes a problem, talk to the doctor about ways to treat it.



• Encourage someone with PHN to get as much sleep as possible and to eat well.

Caring for someone with the constant pain of PHN can be difficult at times. As a caregiver, don't neglect yourself—eat well, get enough sleep, and find ways to manage your stress. When possible, take a break and spend time with friends or do something you enjoy.