Did you know that Trigeminal Neuralgia affects around 1 in 15,000 to 20,000 people, most commonly in those over 50 years of age?
If you are experiencing sudden, sharp, or electric-shock-like facial pain that comes and goes, you might be dealing with Trigeminal Neuralgia.
Also known as tic douloureux, this nerve disorder causes intense pain in parts of the face, often triggered by simple activities like brushing your teeth, talking, or even a light breeze. It can affect one side of the face, and the pain can be brief but severe. Many people try over-the-counter painkillers or avoid triggers, but the pain often returns and may worsen over time. Trigeminal Neuralgia can make everyday actions like smiling or eating feel unbearable.
In this blog, we will explain what Trigeminal Neuralgia is, what causes it, and its symptoms, diagnosis and treatments. Whether your facial pain began recently or has been troubling you for a while, understanding the root cause is important. We will also explore expert-backed treatment options to help you find relief and regain comfort in your daily life.
What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal Neuralgia, sometimes called Tic Douloureux, is a serious nerve condition that causes sudden, severe facial pain, usually on one side of the face. The pain can be so intense that it deeply affects a person’s daily life. Because of how distressing it can be, it is sometimes referred to as the suicide disease.
This condition is often misunderstood and underestimated. It causes sharp, stabbing pain along the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensations from the face to the brain. When this nerve becomes overly sensitive, even mild touch or routine activities like brushing your teeth or talking can trigger episodes of extreme pain.
While the exact cause of Trigeminal Neuralgia isn’t always known, common triggers include pressure on the nerve from a nearby blood vessel or nerve damage caused by conditions like Multiple Sclerosis.
Causes Of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal Neuralgia, or facial nerve pain, can occur due to several reasons. Understanding the cause is important because it helps doctors choose the most effective treatment. Although the pain is felt in the face, the underlying reason can vary from person to person.
Pressure from a Blood Vessel
Sometimes, a nearby blood vessel can press against the trigeminal nerve. This pressure can wear away the nerve’s protective covering (myelin), making it overly sensitive. This is one of the most common causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that affects the nervous system. It can damage the protective layer around nerves, including the trigeminal nerve. This damage may lead to the sharp, painful episodes seen in Trigeminal Neuralgia.
Tumors Pressing on the Nerve
Although rare, a tumor growing near the trigeminal nerve can put pressure on it. This pressure can cause irritation and lead to the sudden, stabbing facial pain typical of the condition.
Facial Injuries or Surgery
An injury to the face, head, or jaw or even certain dental or facial surgeries can damage or irritate the trigeminal nerve. This can lead to pain episodes, especially if the nerve doesn’t heal properly.
Brain Lesions or Cysts
Abnormal growths, such as lesions or cysts in the brain, can sometimes affect the area where the trigeminal nerve connects. These can interfere with how the nerve works and trigger pain.
Stroke
A stroke can damage the part of the brain or brainstem where the trigeminal nerve begins. If this happens, it may cause nerve pain, including symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia.
Age-Related Changes
As people get older, natural wear and tear in the body can affect the nerves. Trigeminal Neuralgia is more common in people over 50, and aging may contribute to nerve sensitivity or damage.
Unknown (Idiopathic) Causes
In some cases, doctors can’t find a clear reason for the pain. When no specific cause is found, it is called idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia. Even without a known cause, treatment is still possible.
Symptoms Of Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Trigeminal Neuralgia causes sudden, electric shock-like pain that is extremely intense and sharp.
- The pain is usually felt only on one side of the face – commonly the forehead, cheeks, jaw, or teeth.
- It affects areas served by the trigeminal nerve and does not spread outside those regions.
- Simple everyday activities like brushing teeth, touching the face, eating, drinking, talking, or shaving can trigger the pain.
- Each pain attack may last just a few seconds to a couple of minutes but can repeat many times a day.
- People often have pain-free periods between episodes, though the condition may worsen over time.
- Some may experience muscle twitching or facial spasms along with the pain.
- There is usually no numbness or tingling, even though the pain is severe.
Diagnosis Of Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Doctors seek history about the type, location, and pattern of the pain.
- A physical or neurological exam is done to check if other nerves are affected.
- Identifying where exactly the pain occurs helps doctors confirm if the trigeminal nerve is involved.
- MRI or CT scans are often used to see if a blood vessel is pressing on the nerve or to rule out conditions like tumors or multiple sclerosis.
- Doctors may try specific nerve pain medicines like carbamazepine to see if symptoms improve, and this can support the diagnosis.
Treatment For Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Trigeminal Ganglion Radiofrequency
- Trigeminal Ganglion Balloon Ablation
- Peripheral Nerve Blocks
- Microvascular Decompression
- Gamma Knife Surgery
Get The Best Treatment For Trigeminal Neuralgia At Pain Medics Clinic
Pain Medics Clinic is a trusted name for people suffering from Trigeminal Neuralgia in Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula. Known for delivering expert care with precision, we specialize in accurate diagnosis and effective pain relief for this extremely painful nerve condition.
We understand how distressing and disabling Trigeminal Neuralgia can be. Simple activities like eating, talking, or even touching your face can trigger intense, electric shock-like pain. That’s why we offer advanced, non-surgical treatments that are carefully designed to reduce nerve irritation, manage pain, and restore comfort in your daily life.
At Pain Medics Clinic, our team of experienced doctors uses the latest medical techniques to treat Trigeminal Neuralgia safely and effectively. Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their unique symptoms and condition. Whether your facial pain started suddenly or has been affecting you for years, we are here to help you get lasting relief and improve your quality of life.
If you are looking for the best clinic for Trigeminal Neuralgia treatment, Pain Medics Clinic is the place to trust.
