The trigeminal nerve provides sensation to the face and helps control some of the muscles used for chewing. People with trigeminal neuralgia typically experience sudden episodes of severe, electric shock-like pain on one side of the face. The condition is often associated with compression or irritation of the trigeminal nerve, although the underlying cause can vary. Treatment may include medications and, when appropriate, interventional procedures or surgery. Your physician can recommend treatment based on your symptoms, medical history, and the underlying cause of your pain.
Is Severe Facial Pain Holding You Back?
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Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from the face to the brain.
Irritation or compression of the trigeminal nerve can cause ordinary sensations, such as touching the face or chewing, to trigger sudden episodes of severe pain.
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In many cases, a blood vessel pressing against the trigeminal nerve near the brainstem may contribute to symptoms. Other underlying causes are also possible.
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A detailed medical and neurological evaluation can help determine which areas of the trigeminal nerve are affected and rule out other possible causes of facial pain.
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Treatment is based on the cause and severity of symptoms and may include medications, interventional procedures, or referral for surgical evaluation when appropriate.
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Expert Tip: Trigeminal neuralgia can sometimes be mistaken for dental pain because symptoms may be felt in the teeth, gums, or jaw. If facial or dental pain persists without a clear dental cause, further medical evaluation may help identify trigeminal neuralgia or another source of the pain before additional procedures are considered.
Anesthesia
Recovery Time
Hospital Stay
Brain Fog Risk
None
Immediate
None
High
Local
Same Day
None
None
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