Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia, the Sudden Stabbing Facial Pain.

Some people experience sudden, stabbing pain in their faces. These symptoms may come and go within seconds, causing such intense pain that daily activities like washing one's face or engaging in conversation become impossible. Those experiencing these symptoms are often diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia. Let's delve into this condition through a conversation with experts.

 

What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia refers to extremely severe neuralgia that occurs suddenly in the area where the trigeminal nerve, responsible for facial sensation, is distributed. This pain arises suddenly and can feel like a strong current passing through, varying depending on the degree of damage to the trigeminal nerve.

 

If you experience facial pain, it's important to consult with an expert to determine whether it's trigeminal neuralgia.

 

What are the symptoms that may suggest trigeminal neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia typically causes pain in specific areas of the face. This pain is often sharp and intense, resembling being stabbed with a dagger or knife, and usually lasts from a few seconds to 2 minutes. Due to this intense pain, patients may grimace. Pain often occurs in response to specific stimuli, and touching certain areas of the face can also trigger pain.

 

What causes trigeminal neuralgia?

Most cases of trigeminal neuralgia are idiopathic, meaning no specific cause can be found. Sometimes it occurs due to compression of the trigeminal nerve by arteries or veins. Additionally, it can arise from brain tumors or vascular malformations.

 

What is the difference between trigeminal neuralgia and facial paralysis?

Both trigeminal neuralgia and facial paralysis can cause facial pain, but they differ in their causes and treatment methods. Facial paralysis occurs due to damage to the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) that acts on facial muscles, primarily indicating paralysis of facial muscles due to motor nerve damage. Steroid therapy or rehabilitation therapy is effective in its treatment.

 

How is trigeminal neuralgia treated?

Trigeminal neuralgia is mainly treated with medication therapy such as carbamazepine. In cases where surgical treatment is necessary, methods such as cryotherapy or surgical removal of part of the trigeminal nerve may be employed.

 

If you experience facial pain, it's important to consult with an expert to determine whether it's trigeminal neuralgia. Efforts should be made to quickly relieve symptoms and maintain a healthy life through appropriate treatment.