Trigeminal Neuralgia is a neurological condition that causes severe, stabbing pain along the trigeminal nerve, which supplies sensation to the face. The pain is often sudden, sharp, and intense, and can be triggered by simple activities like chewing, speaking, or brushing teeth.

Common symptoms include:

• Sudden, severe pain on one side of the face, often described as electric shock-like.
• Pain triggered by routine actions like touching the face, chewing, or talking.
• Episodes of pain that may last for seconds or minutes but can occur in clusters throughout the day.

TN is more common in people over 50, though it can affect younger individuals as well. Women are more likely to develop TN than men. It may be caused by aging, multiple sclerosis, or vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve.

A Trigeminal Neuralgia specialist will review your medical history and symptoms and may conduct a neurological exam. Additional tests like an MRI can help rule out other causes of facial pain and confirm the diagnosis of TN.

Treatment options include:

• Medications: Anti-seizure drugs like carbamazepine, which help reduce pain by stabilizing nerve activity.
• Surgical Options: If medications are ineffective, surgery such as microvascular decompression (MVD) or gamma knife radiosurgery may be considered to relieve pressure on the trigeminal nerve.
• Nerve Block Injections: For temporary relief, targeted nerve block injections may be used.

Treatment effectiveness varies. Medications can provide significant relief for many patients. Surgery or radiosurgery often offers long-term relief and can reduce or eliminate pain for a substantial number of patients.

Common side effects of anti-seizure medications include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and coordination issues. Your doctor will monitor you closely to minimize side effects and adjust doses as needed.

Surgical treatments, such as microvascular decompression, carry some risks, including infection, bleeding, and nerve injury. However, these procedures have been successful in providing long-term pain relief for many patients.

Managing stress, avoiding triggers, and following your treatment plan are crucial in minimizing flare-ups. Gentle face care and maintaining a consistent medication regimen can help manage the condition better.

If you are experiencing frequent or severe facial pain that interferes with daily activities, it is important to consult a Trigeminal Neuralgia specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.