My DH was lucky enough to not to get PHN following a bout of shingles a few years ago. We're lucky I guess, in that we were fully aware of the first signs and symptoms of the disease.

DH was at the doctor, and had taken his first anti viral capsule within an hour or two of that very first blister appearing.

I think the life of the disease was actually shortened for him by getting straight onto the medication, and he certainly didn't suffer any post neuralgic pain....thank goodness. I've heard that other people have had the most awful time with PHN pain.