Facial pain can disrupt the normal functioning of an individual and severely impact their quality of life. Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that causes excruciating facial pain.
It affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensations from the face to the brain. The pain resulting from trigeminal neuralgia is often described as piercing, sharp, and electric shock-like.
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia is also known as tic douloureux and affects approximately 1 in every 15,000 people. It is more common in women than in men and typically occurs in individuals over the age of 50.
Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia
The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to compression of the trigeminal nerve by a blood vessel or tumor.
Other causes of trigeminal neuralgia include multiple sclerosis and nerve damage due to injury.
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
The primary symptom of trigeminal neuralgia is intense facial pain that lasts for several seconds or minutes. The pain is typically triggered by simple activities such as eating, talking, or brushing teeth. Other symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia include:.
- Twitching or muscle spasms in the affected area
- Sensitivity to touch or temperature changes
- Pain that radiates from the lips or gums to the cheek or jaw
- Pain that is isolated to one side of the face
Diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Diagnosing trigeminal neuralgia involves conducting a physical exam to identify the location and severity of pain.
Medical professionals will also review the patient’s medical history and perform diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to rule out other potential causes of facial pain.
Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Treatment options for trigeminal neuralgia include medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes. Medications such as anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants can help reduce the intensity and frequency of pain.
Surgery may be necessary in cases where medication is not effective. Surgical options for trigeminal neuralgia include:.
- Microvascular decompression – a procedure that involves moving blood vessels away from the trigeminal nerve.
- Glycerol injection – an injection that damages the trigeminal nerve to prevent pain signals from traveling to the brain.
- Radiofrequency thermal lesioning – a procedure that uses a heated electrode to destroy small areas of the trigeminal nerve.
Living with Trigeminal Neuralgia
Living with trigeminal neuralgia can be challenging, but lifestyle changes can help manage the condition. Avoiding triggers such as cold temperatures, chewing, or speaking can help reduce the frequency and intensity of pain.
Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can also help reduce stress and tension, which can trigger pain.
Conclusion
Trigeminal neuralgia is a debilitating condition that causes excruciating facial pain. While the exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not fully understood, there are effective treatment options available to manage the condition.
Lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques can also help reduce the frequency and intensity of pain.
