Trigeminal Neuralgia

Conditions We Treat

What exactly is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia, also known as "tic douloureux", is an excruciating and often debilitating disorder that affects the trigeminal nerve, (the nerve responsible for certain sensations in the face and jaw movements). This condition is characterised by sudden and severe facial pain, which can feel like an electric shock or stabbing sensation typically on one side of the face. The intense pain is typically triggered by simple actions such as eating, speaking, or even a gentle touch or cold breeze to the face. Neuralgia-like pain can also be felt in the face and mouth region as a result of surgical or traumatic injury.

How Do I Know if I Have Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by severe, stabbing, electric shock-like pain, usually affecting one side of the face. This excruciating pain can manifest in various facial areas, including the jaw, lips, gums, cheeks, and temples. Attacks may be sporadic or recurrent, with some experiencing multiple daily episodes.

Patients often suspect trigeminal neuralgia when they encounter these agonising jolts of pain. The pain tends to be episodic, with periods of relief followed by recurrent episodes, often increasing in frequency and severity over time. These painful episodes can be distressing and severely impact a person's quality of life, making it challenging to perform routine tasks and enjoy daily activities.

Some common signs that may lead someone to suspect trigeminal neuralgia include the abrupt onset of extreme facial pain triggered by the slightest touch or movement, recurrent and unilateral pain, specific trigger factors like chewing or speaking, and pain-free intervals between episodes.

What Can be Done?

At NCOFP we understand that trigeminal neuralgia is a complex and challenging condition to diagnose and manage. It can often be mistaken for other facial pain disorders, dental problems, or even migraines, leading to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatments.

The initial approach in treating trigeminal neuralgia typically involves conservative methods using prescription medications designed to target the misfiring nerves. These medications, distinct from opioids, aim to reduce or halt abnormal nerve signals. If this primary treatment does not provide adequate relief, additional therapies like nerve blocks and Botox® injections may be considered. Nerve blocks and Botox® can effectively suppress the trigger zones that initiate pain attacks. If these treatments prove insufficient, personalized topical medical compounds, specially prepared by a pharmacist, can be applied to the trigger points. In cases where none of the aforementioned options are effective, surgical intervention by a neurosurgeon may become necessary to achieve relief. Dr. Chah will collaborate closely with your team of neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other medical specialists to develop a comprehensive plan aimed at managing your symptoms.