Yes, this is a common experience for patients suffering from trigeminal neuralgia, a pain that may feel like an electric shock running across the skin.
This is the painful reality for those with trigeminal neuralgia—one of the most disturbing and mysterious types of nerve pain. That’s why patients must know all the symptoms and feelings related to this condition, so they can adapt and choose the right treatment.
Prepared by: Iman Mohamed
What is the Trigeminal Nerve?
The trigeminal nerve is the fifth of the twelve cranial nerves and is responsible for sensation in most parts of the face, including the forehead, cheeks, jaw, teeth, and gums. It branches into three areas, which explains its name: the forehead, cheek, and jaw, according to Mayo Clinic.
When this nerve malfunctions, it sends strong pain signals to the brain without a real trigger or from a very mild stimulus that should not cause such intense pain. This is when the patient begins to suffer from trigeminal neuralgia.
How Do Patients Describe Trigeminal Neuralgia Pain?
The pain is described as sharp, sudden, and similar to an electric shock. It usually occurs in short attacks lasting from seconds to two minutes and affects only one side of the face. These attacks may repeat several times a day or disappear for long periods before returning.
Some patients describe the pain as burning or like severe stabbing, triggered by simple actions such as touching the face, brushing teeth, eating, drinking, or even talking.
Who is More Susceptible to Trigeminal Neuralgia?
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine reports, women are more likely to be affected than men, and the condition usually appears after age 50. It is also linked to other neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS).
Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Causes are limited but significant and include:
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Nerve Compression: The most common cause is pressure on the trigeminal nerve by a nearby blood vessel (artery or vein), leading to damage to the protective nerve sheath and abnormal nerve signaling.
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Tumors: Sometimes, a tumor pressing on the nerve causes the pain, which can be diagnosed more easily.
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Other causes: Multiple sclerosis, previous facial injury, or surgery.
How is Trigeminal Neuralgia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually begins with the patient’s description of symptoms. The distinctive pain pattern helps doctors identify the condition. MRI scans are used to exclude other causes such as tumors or multiple sclerosis.
Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia
There are several treatment options:
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Medication: The first step is medication, which can relieve pain for many patients. Other drugs may be used if the first treatment fails, but they can cause side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, and their effectiveness may decrease over time.
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Local Injections or Botox: Commonly used, especially for frequent attacks, showing promising results in some patients.
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Radiation Therapy: A non-surgical technique that targets the nerve precisely to reduce its activity, performed over several sessions.
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Surgical Procedures: Including balloon compression, radiofrequency nerve ablation, or glycerol injections.
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Vascular Decompression Surgery: Considered the most successful long-term treatment, ideal for patients with clear vascular compression.
Psychological Effects of Trigeminal Neuralgia
The disease affects not only the body but also mental health. Many patients suffer from constant anxiety and stress due to fear of sudden pain. Some prefer isolation and reduce daily activities due to embarrassment or potential pain, negatively affecting their psychological and social wellbeing.
Experts recommend integrating psychological support in the treatment plan. Joining support groups where patients share experiences can help them adapt mentally and emotionally.
Trigeminal neuralgia is not just “facial pain”; it is a complex neurological disorder that can deeply affect quality of life. But with accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment—whether medications or surgery—patients can regain their quality of life and live free from debilitating pain.
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