Trigeminal Neuropathic Pain
Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and Management Strategies for Effective Pain Relief and Improved Quality of Life
What causes TMD?
- Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a very severe, electric shock-like facial pain. TN involves the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensory information to the brain from the face and mouth.
- TN pain starts suddenly and usually only lasts a few seconds. TN pain is often triggered by light touch or movement of the face or mouth. For many people, the pain is felt in or around the mouth, which may be mistaken for toothache.
- TN is rarely a sign of serious disease
Who gets TN?
TN is a rare condition and most commonly occurs in people over the age of 40. TN is slightly more common in women. TN is not caused by dental treatment or injuries to the mouth or face.
What causes TN?
TN affects the trigeminal nerve (nerve which carries sensory information to the brain from the face and mouth). TN is known to be a ‘neuropathic pain’ (caused by some injury to the nerves that deal with sensation of the face and mouth) – the most common cause is a blood vessel rubbing against the nerve, although the nerve damage can be caused by other issues, such as a viral infection. Very rarely is TN associated with serious underlying problems such as tumours.
Usually, a scan will be arranged to confirm what may be causing the TN symptoms.
What might I experience if I have TN?
- The pain associated with TN is usually severe, stabbing, electric shock-like pain that lasts seconds
- TN pain usually presents on one side of the face or mouth
- The pain is commonly triggered by light touch activities such as washing the face, brushing the teeth or shaving
- TN pain isn’t continuous and often disappears for a time before recurring
What are the effects of living with TN?
Living with TN symptoms can be a challenge. Some people find their symptoms do not have a major impact on their life, although they may find them annoying or frustrating. Others find it more difficult to continue with everyday activities and can find the symptoms very distressing. Common problems include stopping or cutting back on enjoyable activities, worrying about the future, losing self-confidence and feeling more worried, angry, irritable or low in mood.
Managing TN Symptoms
Living with TN can be challenging, but many people find ways to manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. Pain management can often include medications that are helpful for pain symptoms. Pain management strategies can be discussed during your consultation.