Trigeminal neuralgia

Description of Trigeminal neuralgia

Definition of Trigeminal neuralgia
 
Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a type of chronic pain that affects your face. Any vibration on your face, even from talking, can set it off. The condition may come and go, disappearing for days or even months. But the longer you have it, the less often it goes away.
 
Signs and Symptoms of Trigeminal neuralgia
 
Common symptoms are:
1. Extreme and sudden burning
2. Shock-like pain
3. Pain usually affects one side of the face
 
Causes and Risk Factors of Trigeminal neuralgia
 
1. TN usually affects people over 50, especially women.
2. The cause is probably a blood vessel pressing on the trigeminal nerve, one of the largest nerves in the head.
3. Tumor and multiple sclerosis can also cause TN, but in some cases the cause is unknown.
 
Investigations
 
There is no single test to diagnose TN. It can be hard to diagnose, since many other conditions can cause facial pain.
 
Treatment of Trigeminal neuralgia
 
Treatment options include:
1. Medicines
2. Surgery
3. Complementary techniques
 
NIH: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Content Details
Last updated on:
05 Feb 2018 | 11:54 AM (IST)
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