TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA = Trigeminal nerveis the main nerve of the face + Neuralgia is pain coming from a nerve
As the name signifies, Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a nerve pain condition affecting the main nerve of the face (trigeminal nerve) and causing repeated sudden attacks of severe pain generally on one side of the face.
There is one trigeminal nerve on each side. It carries touch and painsensations from your face and controls the muscles used in chewing.The nerve divides into three main branches
TN more commonly affects the 2nd and 3rdbranches causing pain over the jaw and the cheek area. The patient generally experiences a severe, sudden, sharp, stabbing, burning or shock-like sensation lasting for a short duration with frequent episodes throughout the day.
TN pain is typically described as
Such extreme pain can often trigger secondary problems such as
About 10 people in 100,000 develop TN each year. This conditionis more common in women and is generally seen after the age of 50 years. There is some evidence that the disorder can run in families. Although sometimes debilitating, the disorder is not life-threatening.
The diagnosis is based on the typical symptoms and there is nodiagnostic test for trigeminal neuralgia.Physical examination in classic TN is generally normal and as facial pain can be caused by a large number of conditions, sometimes the diagnosis can be challenging. Branches of nerve can be damaged with facial trauma, dental procedures, or surgery causing similar symptoms.
MRI scan are considered especially when
There are many options available to control the pain in TN including medications, interventional pain procedures and surgery.
Medications. Common pain relief medications or simple painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen are not effective in controlling TN pain. Different type pain-relieving mediations which work on nerves by quietening nerve impulses are more effective. These medicines are started on low doses and gradually escalated depending on one’s response and the severity of the problem. Starting at high doses straight way can lead to more side effects and may sometimes be counterproductive. Some of the medicines need monitoring and regular blood tests. One medicine may not work for everyone and different options or combinations may need to be explored to get best pain control.
Interventional pain procedures. If medication fails to relieve pain or are poorly tolerated due to side effects, then interventional pain procedures can be are considered including
The radiofrequency treatment does not involve any cuts or incisions and is minimally invasive. In this treatment a needle to apply heat directly to the nerve cells.The resulting relief is of quick onset and can last for long duration.
Surgery. If an MRI scan shows that there is a blood vessel pressing on the nerve, microvascular decompression or move the blood vessel away from the nerve to relieve the pressure off the nerve may be an option. This can offer long-term relief but is however a major undertaking as it involves brain surgery to reach the problem site. There are pros and cons of each treatment and the best option is decided in consultation with the concerned individual.
Maintain good oral hygiene. If brushing is not possible then alternative options such as antibacterial mouthwash can be considered
Avoid triggering factors such as
Trigeminal neuralgia is not life threatening although can adversely impact on the quality of life and the fear of impending attacks can have a debilitating impact on all aspect of one’s life. The course of TN is variable with frequent recurrences and remission(symptom free intervals) lasting for months and years. With our current knowledge and research evidence it is not possible predict the timing or the frequency of attacks or the future course of the condition, but correct diagnosis and proper management can be beneficial to the patients, leads to a good prognosis. In many cases it has been observed that the bouts of pain tend to become more frequent as one ages. Controlling the pain symptoms is possible in most patients with appropriate specialist guidance.