Trigeminal neuralgia treatment
The trigeminal nerve is one of the main cranial nerves responsible for sensation in the face. When this nerve is affected, a person may experience severe pain known as trigeminal neuralgia.
Trigeminal neuralgia:
It is a sharp, sudden pain that affects the face, and is described as electric shock-like.
The attacks may be intermittent or recurring.
Causes of trigeminal neuralgia:
Pressure on the trigeminal nerve by blood vessels, which leads to damage to the protective sheath (myelin).
Diseases such as multiple sclerosis that damage myelin.
Nerve injuries resulting from previous surgery, accidents, or strokes.
Risk factors:
Women are more susceptible than men.
Age over 50.
High blood pressure.
A family history of the disease.
Symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia:
Attacks of sharp, electric shock-like pain on one side of the face.
Pain resulting from simple stimuli such as touching the face, chewing, talking, or brushing teeth.
The duration of the pain ranges from seconds to minutes.
Spasm-like pain.
Pain in the areas of nerve supply (cheek, jaw, teeth, gums, lips).
Increased frequency and severity of attacks over time.
Diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia:
Physical examination and assessment of the nature and location of pain and stimuli.
Neurological examinations and MRI to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cause.
Treatment of trigeminal neuralgia:
Drug therapy:
Anticonvulsants to prevent nerve irritation.
Muscle relaxants.
Tricyclic antidepressants.
Surgical treatment:
Decompression of the trigeminal nerve.
Nerve injury to reduce pain signals (may cause numbness).
Surgical methods:
Radiofrequency to damage the nerve and reduce pain signals.
Microscopic surgeries in the brainstem to relieve pressure on the nerve.
Note:
The choice of treatment depends on the patient's condition and the cause of the pain.
It is important to consult a specialist doctor to determine the appropriate treatment plan.
