Trigeminal Neuralgia: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

1. Trigeminal Neuralgia: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments Trigeminal neuralgia (TGN) is a nerve condition in which there is abnormal activity or function of one or more of the trigeminal nerve branches. The trigeminal nerve consists of several different branches that serve different functions. It is typically known as the fifth cranial nerve, as it is the fifth major nerve branch stemming from the brainstem. Trigeminal neuralgia is a very painful and debilitating condition that affects many people differently. TGN can be classified into three main types: classic, intermediate, and mesencephalic. Each type has its own unique set of symptoms and characteristics. What is the Trigeminal Nerve? The trigeminal nerve is the fifth cranial nerve and is activated when someone experiences any sensation on the face. The Trigeminal Nerve Treatment is also known

2. 1 as the V nerve, as it is the fifth major nerve branch stemming from the brainstem. The trigeminal nerve is made up of three main branches: the ophthalmic nerve, the maxillary nerve, and the mandibular nerve. These three branches serve different functions, including movement and sensation in the face, muscles of mastication and the teeth, and blood vessels and glands of the face. Trigeminal Neuralgia Symptoms: Trigeminal neuralgia symptoms include extreme pain in and around the face, which can present as stabbing, shooting, burning, and/or aching sensations. Other common trigeminal neuralgia symptoms are extreme tenderness or pressure in the face, and numbness in the face. ● Classic TGN symptoms: Classic TGN is characterized by extreme pain in one side of the face. The pain can come and go, and is usually triggered by something touching the face. For example, eating, drinking, brushing teeth, chewing gum, or even smiling can bring on the pain. This type of TGN is said to be present in approximately 80% of all TGN cases. ● Intermediate TGN symptoms: This type of TGN is characterized by pain that is present in both sides of the face. The pain may be constant and is often described as burning or aching. This can all vary from person to person as there are no set symptoms for intermediate TGN. ● Mesencephalic TGN symptoms: This type of TGN is rarer than the first two types and is characterized by extreme pain in one side of the face. The pain might be present all the time or it may come and go. Trigeminal Neuralgia Causes: There are many possible causes of trigeminal neuralgia, including a variety of different things. In many cases, the exact cause is unknown and doctors refer to it as idiopathic. Most people with trigeminal neuralgia have some degree of stenosis, or narrowing, of the blood vessels that are responsible for supplying blood to the face.

3. 2 In many cases, this is simply a result of aging. When blood flow to the face is reduced, there is less blood flow to the trigeminal nerve. This can cause the small sensory nerve fibers to become compressed. Trigeminal neuralgia can also be caused by trauma, such as a blow to the head or a car accident, that results in irritation of the trigeminal nerve. Treatment for Trigeminal Neuralgia: The specific treatment for trigeminal neuralgia varies depending on the cause and type of the condition. Doctors may prescribe pain medications and anti-seizure medications to help treat the pain and reduce the frequency of attacks. They may also prescribe antidepressants to help manage depression and anxiety, which is common in those who suffer from TGN. In some cases, surgery may be recommended. This can depend on the type of TGN and the location of the lesion. Trauma - If trauma, such as an accident or a fall, caused the trigeminal neuralgia, the nerve may have been disrupted or torn. In this case, surgery may be required to repair the damage. However, there's no need to be afraid. In fact, Trigeminal Neuralgia is a fairly common condition, and most people who have it are able to manage it quite well. If you have been diagnosed with TN or think you may be experiencing its symptoms, Consult Our Trigeminal Neuralgia Specialists for better treatment.