Trigeminal neuralgia
Severe pain in half of the face.
Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a rare but painful neurological disorder that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from the face to the brain.
Causes
The exact cause of TN is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to compression or irritation of the trigeminal nerve. In some cases, TN may be related to underlying medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or a tumor.
Symptoms
Symptoms of TN typically include severe, sharp, shooting pain in the face that lasts for seconds to minutes. The pain is typically on one side and may be triggered by things such as touching the face, eating, talking, or brushing teeth.
Treatment
The treatment of TN typically involves medications and, in some cases, surgery.
Treatments may include
- Anticonvulsant medications, such as carbamazepine, which can help reduce nerve sensitivity and relieve pain
- Muscle relaxants, such as baclofen, which can help reduce muscle tension in the face
- Steroids, which can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain
- Surgery to relieve pressure on the trigeminal nerve, such as microvascular decompression or radiofrequency thermocoagulation
Complications
If left untreated, TN can have a significant impact on quality of life, as the pain can be severe and debilitating. Additionally, some individuals with TN may become depressed or anxious due to the chronic pain.
It is important for individuals with TN to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that addresses their symptoms and minimizes the risk of complications. In some cases, lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods and using heat or cold therapy may also help reduce TN symptoms.
