Trigeminal Neuralgia
A Chronic Pain That Affects the Trigeminal Nerve in the Face
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia? This condition is caused by misfiring of the trigeminal nerve, which can cause shooting pain and unusual sensations in the face.
About the Trigeminal Nerve
The trigeminal nerve consists of a dense bundle of nerve tissue, called the trigeminal ganglia that is located near the base of the brain, which then branches into the three sections to the upper, middle, and lower parts of the face. These branches sense touch, pressure, temperature, and control the chewing muscles.
Symptoms
Pain can be felt consistently or as flashes of pain. Trigeminal Neuralgia pain flashes may last from a few seconds to a few minutes, and can be triggered by some type of contact with the face. Brushing teeth, applying makeup, shaving, eating, talking, or being exposed to wind can all trigger an episode. People describe the pain as a sudden burning or an electric shock, typically felt on one side of the face.
Causes
There are several reasons that patients may develop Trigeminal Neuralgia. An artery, vein, or tumor in the face can compress the nerve, causing it to misfire. An autoinflammatory nerve disease or viral infection, such as shingles, can also damage the nerve and lead to the condition.
How to Treat Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal Neuralgia pain can be debilitating. Your NSPC affiliated provider can provide nonsurgical solutions, including: oral medication, nerve blocks, Trigeminal ganglion pulsed radiofrequency and radiofrequency, and peripheral nerve stimulation. Depending on the reason for Trigeminal Neuralgia, a referral to a neurosurgeon may be appropriate.
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