What Is Sphenopalatine Neuralgia?
Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Do I Have Sphenopalatine Neuralgia?
Sphenopalatine Neuralgia is a pain disorder that presents as intense pain in the head or face. As with many pain disorders, it’s symptoms are similar to many headaches, often causing misdiagnosis and frustration for the sufferer. This condition (also known as Sluder’s Neuralgia) can mirror the symptoms of cluster headaches, but the two conditions differ in specific symptoms, causes, and treatments.
What Are The Symptoms?
Sphenopalatine Neuralgia is similar to cluster headaches in that the person experiences symptoms such as:
Quick on-set of pain
Pain on one side of the face or body
Pain is episodic
Swelling, sweating, or a runny nose on the affected side
Symptoms that are specific to Sphenopalatine Neuralgia are:
Pain is felt more in the upper jaw and soft palate (rather than eye socket)
Episodes last longer
Sinus congestion and inflammation of nasal mucous membranes is common
What Are The Causes?
Causes of Sphenopalatine Neuralgia is an irritation of the sphenopalatine ganglion (a collection of facial and nasal nerve endings ). This irritation can be caused by a nasal infection, a nasal deformity, or scarring in the nasal cavity. This condition has been noted to be more common in women than in men.
How Is Sphenopalatine Neuralgia Diagnosed?
Dr. Alain de Lotbinière is an expert in the diagnosis of uncommon and complex pain disorders. During the consultation, he will discuss your pain episodes, medical history, as well as your responsiveness to prior forms of treatment to ensure the correct diagnosis.
How is Sphenopalatine Neuralgia Treated?
Dr. de Lotbinière will discuss all the options for treatment including:
- Medical Therapies for Infection or Nasal Decongestion
- Ganglion Blocks
- Sphenopalatine Ganglion Stimulation
What Can I Do Now?
If you think you may be suffering from Sphenopalatine Neuralgia, book a consultation with Dr. de Lotbinière today. With over thirty years of expertise in pain disorder management and advanced neurosurgery, he has the right answers and solutions for you. Dr. Alain de Lotbinière has appointments available at both his Connecticut and New York offices.