Have you ever experienced a sudden, intense pain in your face that feels like an electric shock? If so, you may be suffering from trigeminal neuralgia. This is a painful neurological disorder characterized by spasms and intense pain in the side of the face. Trigeminal neuralgia is often misdiagnosed as a dental or jaw problem and in the past has even been considered a psychological disorder.

However, recent research shows that trigeminal neuralgia originates from compressive forces surrounding the trigeminal nerve. Because of the immense pain and difficulty in diagnosing, intense medications and surgical treatment are regularly offered to those who suffer from this condition. There are many potential causes of trigeminal neuralgia, but the most common is compression of the trigeminal nerve. 

Causes:

  • A tumor or growth pressing on the trigeminal nerve
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Infection of the trigeminal nerve
  • Trauma to the trigeminal nerve
  • Symptoms

The most common symptom of trigeminal neuralgia is a sudden, severe, electric shock-like pain in the side of the face. This pain is usually triggered by simple activities such as brushing your teeth or talking on the phone. The pain may last for seconds or minutes, and it may be so severe that it interferes with your daily activities.

Other symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia may include:

  • A burning sensation in the face
  • Dull, aching pain in the face
  • Pain that feels like jabbing needles in the face
  • Pain that gets worse with touch or movement of the head and neck

If you think you may have trigeminal neuralgia, it's important to see a doctor right away. Trigeminal neuralgia is often misdiagnosed as a dental or jaw problem, so it's important to get an accurate diagnosis. No one test can diagnose trigeminal neuralgia, so your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and order imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan.

Treatments

Once trigeminal neuralgia is diagnosed, there are several treatment options available. The goal of treatment is to relieve the pain and prevent it from coming back. Treatment options for trigeminal neuralgia include:

  • Medications: Medications can help relieve the pain of trigeminal neuralgia and prevent it from coming back. Medications that are commonly used to treat trigeminal neuralgia include anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and nerve block injections.
  • Surgery: If medications don't relieve the pain or if the side effects are not tolerable, surgery may be an option. There are several different types of surgery that can be used to treat trigeminal neuralgia, and the type of surgery will depend on the cause of the condition.

Chiropractic care

Chiropractic care is an effective treatment for trigeminal neuralgia. Chiropractic care can help relieve the pain and prevent it from coming back by reducing the compression of the trigeminal nerve. If you suffer from trigeminal neuralgia, don't suffer in silence. There are treatments available that can help relieve the pain and allow you to live a normal life. Talk to your chiropractor doctor about the best treatment option for you.

If you need help you can find a chiropractic office doctor near you HereWe wish you the best Care and the best Health.

Find the right specialist for you.

Medximity uses verified reviews so you can make the best decision for your healthcare.

Book an appointment MedXimity - book an appointment

Chat