Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia, also called tic douloureux, is a condition that affects the trigeminal nerve of the face. This nerve is responsible for sending impulses of touch, pain, pressure and temperature to the brain from the face, jaw, gums, forehead and around the eyes. Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by a sudden, severe, pain typically felt on one side of the jaw or cheek. This disorder is more common in women than in men, and rarely affects anyone younger than 50.

Painful episodes of trigeminal neuralgia generally last a few seconds, and often occur repeatedly. Attacks are triggered by talking, brushing teeth, touching the face, chewing, or swallowing. Episodes may occur throughout the day and last for days, weeks, or months at a time, and then disappear for months or years.

Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by this cycle of recurrences and remissions. The treatment plan for this condition depends upon many factors, such as the severity of the dysfunction and pain, the type and location of the pain, as well as patient’s age, ongoing medical conditions and ability to tolerate other medical therapies. The doctor will take all of these factors into consideration when prescribing a treatment plan.

In general, the standard course of therapy will follow the chronic pain treatment continuum, and may include anti-seizure medications to control pain and spasms, as well as nerve blocks, neurolysis and surgery.