Ilioinguinal Neuralgia
Ilioinguinal neuralgia is one of the most common causes of lower abdominal and pelvic pain. It’s main symptoms include are burning pain and numbness over the lower abdomen that radiates to to the genitalia and into the inner thigh. It is caused by compression of the ilioinguinal nerve as it passes though the transverse abdominis muscle in the lumbar (lower) spine area. It is usually caused by trauma, particularly blunt trauma, to the lumbar spine region.
Anti-Neuropathic Medication
The anti-neuropathic medication used to relieve ilioinguinal neuralgia pain can be split into two groups, antidepressants and anticonvulsants.
The tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline is used to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain. People with chronic pain conditions often have decreased levels of serotonin – a calming neurotransmitter. Amitriptyline can relax painful muscles and heighten the effects of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers
Anticonvulsants, usually prescribed to treat epilepsy, are sometimes used in conjunction with tricyclic antidepressants. These anticonvulsants affect the chemicals in the brain that send signals across the nervous system. Certain anticonvulsants also provide relief for nerve pain patients, since both seizures and pain involve abnormally increased firing of nerve cells. Some of the commonly used medications are Pregabalin, Gabapentin and Carbamazepine.
Other Medication
When combined with anti-neuropathic medication, non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have shown to significantly increase their pain-relieving effects. Common forms of NSAIDs, available over the counter, are aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen..
Opioids are morphine like drugs, typically defined as strong pain medications prescribed for all types of pain. Examples of opioids include Oxycodone, Buprenorphine, Morphine, Tramadol and Methadone. Studies have shown that opioids may effectively treat ilioinguinal neuralgia without the cognitive side effects associated with anti-neuropathic medication.
