Overview
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for transmitting sensations from the face to the brain. Trigeminal neuralgia is characterised by intense, stabbing, electric shock-like pain in parts of the face, typically on one side. The pain can be triggered by activities such as chewing, speaking, brushing teeth, or even a gentle touch.
Symptoms
• Sudden, severe, shock-like or stabbing pain that can last from a few seconds to a few minutes.
• Pain typically occurs in the lower face and jaw, but it can also affect the area around the nose and above the eyes.
• Episodes of pain may be triggered by routine activities such as eating, talking, or touching the face.
• Periods of remission where the pain disappears for days, weeks, or even months, followed by recurrence of pain episodes.
Pain Management Treatments
1) Medications
• Anticonvulsants: These are commonly used and are often effective in reducing or eliminating pain.
• Muscle Relaxants: These can be effective, especially when used in combination with anticonvulsants.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants: Medications such as Amitriptyline and Nortriptyline can help manage pain in some cases.
Minimally Invasive Pain Management Procedures
• Nerve Blocks: Local anaesthetics or steroids can be injected around the trigeminal nerve to block pain signals temporarily. This procedure can provide significant relief and can be repeated as necessary.
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• Botulinum Toxin Injections: Botox injections around the affected areas of the face can reduce pain by blocking the release of certain chemicals involved in pain transmission.
Trigeminal Neuralgia is a debilitating condition that requires a comprehensive and tailored approach to management. Effective pain relief often requires a combination of medications and minimally invasive procedures such as nerve blocks and Botox injections. Due to the complexity and variability of the condition, treatment plans are individualised to meet the specific needs of each patient. Dr Mubarak specialises in treating facial pain conditions such as Trigeminal Neuralgia. Creating tailored treatment plans to help patients manage and alleviate their facial pain effectively.
