Trigeminal Neuralgia The Painful Way of Facial Pain

Trigeminal neuralgia is a neuropathic pain condition that causes sudden, severe and sharp pain in the face. These pains radiate along a facial nerve called the trigeminal nerve and are often described by the patient as an "electric shock" or "stabbing".

Causes and Triggers:

Trigeminal neuralgia can often be triggered by

1. Nerve Compression: Compression or compression of the trigeminal nerve can cause pain.
2. Vascular Problems: Blood vessels can cause pain by pressing on the nerve.
3. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Neurological diseases such as MS may increase the risk of trigeminal neuralgia.
4. Trauma or Injury: Trauma or injury to the face can trigger trigeminal neuralgia.

Treatment Options:

There are several options for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia:

1. Medications: Anticonvulsant drugs, painkillers and antispasmodic drugs can be used to relieve pain.
2. Physical Therapy: For some patients, physical therapy can help reduce the severity of pain.
3. Nerve Blocks: Nerve blocks to specific areas of the trigeminal nerve can help control pain. These methods include radiofrequency methods, balloon compression, glycerol injection, gamma knife.
4. Surgical Intervention: If medications and other treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered. It is aimed to correct the area where the nerve is under pressure.

Trigeminal neuralgia can significantly affect quality of life as it causes severe pain. Treatment options can vary depending on the patient's condition and the severity of the pain. It is therefore important for people experiencing symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia to contact a health professional.