Post-herpetic neuralgia can be a very severe and debilitating pain syndrome, most frequently affecting the first (ophthalmic) division of the trigeminal nerve.

Post-herpetic neuralgia occurs most commonly in the elderly. It causes sharp or aching pain, and is often associated with allodynia and hypersensitivity.

Treatment is usually directed at the pain, rather than the underlying viral infection. This usually involves gabapentin or other neuropathic pain medications. Transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS) may also be helpful.