What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological disorder causing severe and recurrent pain in the face. In this condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, sudden and sharp pain attacks occur on one side of the face. These pains are usually felt in a region of the face, on the cheek, jaw, or forehead.

What are the Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia?

The causes of trigeminal neuralgia may include:

• Nerve compression or pressure:
  Compression or pressure applied by structures surrounding the trigeminal nerve can lead to trigeminal neuralgia.
• Multiple sclerosis:
  Neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis can affect the trigeminal nerve, causing trigeminal neuralgia symptoms.
• Tumors:
  Tumors near the nerve can exert pressure on the nerve, leading to trigeminal neuralgia.
• Inflammation:
  Inflammation or infection of the nerve can cause trigeminal neuralgia. For example, the herpes zoster virus can affect the trigeminal nerve and cause pain attacks.
• Bone and dental problems:
  Problems in the jawbone or teeth can cause trigeminal neuralgia by exerting pressure on the trigeminal nerve.
• Other factors:
  Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression are suggested to play a role in the development of trigeminal neuralgia. However, the exact impact of these factors is not fully understood.
  
  

What are the Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia?

• Intense and Sharp Pain Attacks
• Burning or Electric Shock Sensation
• Numbness or Tingling in the Face
• Pain Triggers (e.g., daily activities like speaking, eating, or brushing teeth)
  
  

How is Trigeminal Neuralgia Treated?

Trigeminal neuralgia treatment aims to control symptoms and is personalized based on the patient's condition and the severity of symptoms.

• Medication therapy: Medications such as anticonvulsants, analgesics, and tricyclic antidepressants can help alleviate trigeminal neuralgia symptoms.
• Neurostimulation
• Neural block therapy
• Neural therapy
• Neurotoxin therapy
• Surgical intervention