Trigeminal neuralgia causes sudden, severe, shooting pain on one side of the face. It gained public attention when well-known personalities spoke about undergoing treatment for it, and since then more people have recognised the symptoms and sought care.
What causes trigeminal neuralgia?
The most common cause is a blood vessel pressing on the trigeminal nerve near the brainstem. It can also result from multiple sclerosis, a tumour or injury to the nerve, which is why an MRI scan is often advised.
Symptoms
- Brief episodes of intense, electric-shock-like pain in the cheek, jaw, teeth, lips or around the eye
- Pain triggered by touch, chewing, speaking, brushing teeth, a breeze or washing the face
- Attacks that occur in clusters with pain-free spells in between
Common treatment
The first-line medicine is usually carbamazepine or a related anticonvulsant, which can control pain in many people. Possible side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, rash and low blood sodium, so blood tests are needed. When medicines stop working or are not tolerated, procedures such as microvascular decompression, radiosurgery or nerve-ablation procedures may be considered.
Homeopathic treatment
Homeopathy offers individualised medicines selected according to the character of the pain, what triggers or relieves it, and the person’s overall constitution. It can be considered as an additional or supportive option, but because trigeminal neuralgia can be severe, please keep your neurologist informed and do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.
Learn more
To discuss your situation with a Welling Homeopathy doctor, contact a clinic or call +91 80 80 850 950 for a consultation in person or online.
Disclaimer: this page is for information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary from person to person.
