What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Common Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatments
I Have Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Many people live day-to-day with disruptive pain in the face, head, jaw, and neck. There can be numerous causes for this type of pain, whether it is acute or chronic. However, for those who have received treatment for more common causes of facial or cranial pain such as TMJ, migraines, or teeth grinding – without relief – there may be something more at work.
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Patients suffering from Trigeminal Neuralgia typically have one or more of the following symptoms:
Episodic pain in the cheek, jaw, teeth, gums, or lips. In rare cases, patients may feel pain in the eye, forehead, or scalp
Pain often feels like a “jolt” or a “shock”
The pain may last for a few seconds or a few minutes
Episodes tend to increase in severity and become more pronounced over time
Pain commonly affects one side of the patient’s face at a time. However, in rare cases, pain can occur on both sides during an episode
Attacks are usually spontaneous, but some patients might identify triggers such as oral hygiene practices, touching of the face, talking or eating
Some patients report a chronic or constant ache or burning in the affected area
What Are the Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia?
While there is not one singular cause of Trigeminal Neuralgia, often issues arise there is pressure placed on the trigeminal nerve by arteries, veins, or other tissues adjacent to the nerve at the base of the brain. Whether this pressure is a result of trauma, the aging process, a tumor, or a degenerative condition like multiple sclerosis; it often results in nerve malfunction and the accompanying pain.
How Does Dr. Alain de Lotbinière Diagnose Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Dr. de Lotbinière will review your medical history, discuss your pain episodes, any triggers you have identified, as well as review any procedures or treatments that have already been discussed or pursued. He will then explore this condition and other similar conditions and may employ further neurological exams or MRI imaging to ensure the correct diagnosis.
What Are the Treatment Options for Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Dr. de Lotbinière will review and explain your options for treatment that may include both non-surgical and surgical interventions depending on your specific symptoms and medical history.
Common Treatments for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Medications and Injections
- Anticonvulsants
- Antispasmodic Medications
- Botox
Procedures
- Microvascular decompression
- Gamma Knife Radiosurgery
- Thermal or Glycerol Rhizotomy
- Balloon compression
Turn to Experience You Can Trust
Dr. Alain de Lotbinière is a leading physician in the diagnosis and treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia. He has pioneered several surgical techniques and leans on more than thirty years of diagnostic expertise to address your symptoms and relieve your pain. Dr. de Lotbinière serves patients from across the US from his Stamford, Connecticut, and White Plains, New York offices. Contact his team today for a consultation to discuss your facial pain and your treatment options.