Overview
Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that causes sudden, severe, electric-shock-like pain in part of the face, usually on one side. The pain is set off by everyday activities such as eating, talking, or touching the face. It is one of the most painful conditions known, but treatment can bring relief.
Symptoms
- Sudden, stabbing or shock-like facial pain
- Pain triggered by chewing, talking, brushing teeth, or a light touch
- Pain affecting the cheek, jaw, teeth, or gums
- Brief attacks lasting seconds to minutes
- Episodes that come in clusters over days or weeks
- Pain almost always on one side of the face
Causes & risk factors
- Pressure on the trigeminal nerve from a nearby blood vessel
- Nerve irritation linked to multiple sclerosis
- A tumor pressing on the nerve (less common)
- Nerve injury from facial trauma or surgery
- Often the exact cause is unclear
Treatment & self-care
Care is guided by a neurologist and may begin with medication aimed at calming the overactive nerve; when this is not enough, specialists may consider procedures or surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve. A clinician will arrange imaging when needed and tailor the approach to the severity.
See a doctor urgently if
- Facial pain that is severe or recurring
- Pain that is spreading or accompanied by numbness
- New weakness or drooping of the face
- Pain with fever, rash, or swelling
- Pain that no longer responds to current treatment