Trigeminal Neuralgia: What You Need to Know
A chronic pain condition known as trigeminal neuralgia affects the trigeminal nerve, the nerve that transmits sensations from the face to the brain. In trigeminal neuralgia, the face feels like it has been hit with an electric shock when it is severe, shooting, or jabbing pain occurs. Everyday activities such as touching the face, chewing, speaking, or brushing the teeth can trigger the pain. The pain can last from a few seconds up to several minutes and recur multiple times a day or week. Trigeminal neuralgia can cause emotional distress and affect quality of life.
What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?
A disruption of the trigeminal nerve is believed to be the cause of trigeminal neuralgia, but the exact cause is still unclear. Compression of the nerve by a blood vessel at the brain base is one of the most common causes. This can put pressure on the nerve and cause it to malfunction. Other possible causes include:
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Multiple sclerosis, a condition that damages the protective coating of the nerve fibers
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Tumors, infections or injuries that affect the trigeminal nerve or the brain
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Aging, which can cause the nerve to wear down over time
How Is Trigeminal Neuralgia Diagnosed?
It is possible to diagnose trigeminal neuralgia based on the description of pain, the location of the affected area, and the triggers. A neurological examination may also be performed to assess the sensation and reflexes in the face. Tests that may be ordered to rule out other conditions or determine the cause of nerve compression include:
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain and the nerve
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Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), which uses a contrast dye to highlight the blood vessels and the blood flow
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Electromyography (EMG), which measures the electrical activity of the muscles
How Is Trigeminal Neuralgia Treated?
The treatment of trigeminal neuralgia depends on the severity and frequency of the pain, the cause of the nerve compression, and the response to medications. The main goals of the treatment are to relieve the pain, prevent attacks, and improve the quality of life. Some of the treatments include:
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Medications, such as anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, or painkillers, that can help reduce the nerve activity and the pain
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Injections, such as botulinum toxin, glycerol, or alcohol, that can temporarily block the nerve signals and the pain
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Surgery, such as microvascular decompression, balloon compression, radiofrequency ablation, or stereotactic radiosurgery, that can either relieve the pressure on the nerve, damage the nerve fibers, or destroy the nerve root
How Can Trigeminal Neuralgia Be Prevented?
There is no definitive way to prevent trigeminal neuralgia, but some steps that may help reduce the risk or the frequency of the attacks include:
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Avoiding or minimizing the known triggers, such as heat, cold, touch, or stress
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Eating soft foods and drinking beverages that are at room temperature
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Washing the face with cotton pads and warm water
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Using an electric toothbrush or rinsing the mouth with warm water after eating
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Applying a warm compress or a heating pad to the affected area
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Taking the prescribed medications as directed and following up with the doctor regularly
Despite the intense pain and interference with daily activities that trigeminal neuralgia can cause, it can be managed and controlled with proper diagnosis, treatment, and care. Don't hesitate to seek medical help if you or someone you know suffers from trigeminal neuralgia. Hope and help are available.
