Trigeminal neuralgia otherwise called tic douloureux is a type of chronic pain disorder that targets the trigeminal nerve, subjecting individuals to unpredictable and searing agony. This is a stabbing pain affecting the lower face and jaw, but may also happen in the nose area and above the eye. If you or someone you love suffers from this condition, here are some insights into understanding trigeminal neuralgia and effective treatment approaches.
What is trigeminal neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia, often referred to as the “suicide disease” due to the intensity of its pain, manifests as sudden, electrocuting sensations along the trigeminal nerve pathways. It has a profound impact on daily life when routine actions, like sipping hot coffee or feeling a gentle breeze, become the cause of excruciating pain. Demographics affected by this condition are disproportionate, with women and individuals over 50 being more susceptible, as found by a 2023 study.
The trigeminal nerve is a complex network and part of cranial nerves responsible for transmitting sensory signals from the face to the brain. It consists of pathways through which signals of touch, temperature, and pain travel. Both sides of the head, left and right, have their trigeminal nerve, each with three separate branches:
- Ophthalmic nerve (V1),
- Maxillary nerve (V2), and
- Mandibular nerve (V3).
Breaking down the common types of trigeminal neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia comes in various types, each with its unique characteristics. Understanding these types is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management of trigeminal neuralgia. The two primary classifications are classic (Type 1) and secondary (Type 2).
Classic trigeminal neuralgia (Type 1)
Classic trigeminal neuralgia is the more common form, often referred to as idiopathic or primary trigeminal neuralgia. In this type, the excruciating pain occurs spontaneously without an identifiable cause. The pain episodes are typically triggered by seemingly innocent stimuli, such as a light touch, wind, or routine activities like chewing or talking.
The pain is intense, sharp, and can last for seconds to minutes. It’s usually unilateral and is confined to one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve, commonly affecting the maxillary or mandibular divisions.
Secondary trigeminal neuralgia (Type 2)
Secondary trigeminal neuralgia, also known as symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia, is associated with an underlying cause or condition that affects the trigeminal nerve. This can include compression of the nerve by a blood vessel, a tumor, or other structural abnormalities. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or facial trauma can also lead to secondary trigeminal neuralgia. The pain in Type 2 is often more constant and may be accompanied by other neurological symptoms related to the underlying cause.
Know the pain, its behaviors, and consequences
The pain symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia can be intense and may vary among individuals, but they commonly include:
- Sudden, sharp, and stabbing pain that comes on suddenly. The pain is often described as electric shocks or shooting sensations, and it can be triggered by seemingly benign stimuli;
- Unilateral pain, affecting one side of the face, which commonly involves one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve;
- Trigger points are pain episodes often triggered by specific actions or stimuli, which can vary from person to person. Common triggers include touch (even a light touch or breeze), eating, drinking, talking, or activities like brushing teeth;
- Episodic nature which tends to occur in sudden, brief episodes that can last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. These episodes can be sporadic, happening multiple times a day or in clusters, followed by periods of remission;
- Recurrent attacks whose frequency and intensity can vary and some may have prolonged periods of relief between episodes;
- The intensity of pain is often described as excruciating and unbearable. The intensity can be so severe that it is sometimes referred to as one of the most painful conditions a person can experience;
- Avoidance behaviors appear due to the fear of triggering an episode. Individuals with trigeminal neuralgia may decide to avoid certain facial movements, activities, or even social interactions that might cause pain;
- The impact on quality of life can be significant. The fear of pain and its interference with daily activities may lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and depression.
Effective treatment approaches
There are two ways to approach the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia:
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Surgical treatments:
- Microvascular Decompression (MVD) involves repositioning or cushioning blood vessels that compress the trigeminal nerve, providing lasting relief.
- Gamma Knife Radiosurgery is a non-invasive approach utilizing targeted radiation to alleviate pain.
- Radiofrequency Thermal Lesioning is a technique that involves applying heat to selectively damage nerve fibers, interrupting pain signals.
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Non-surgical treatments:
- Medications like anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants aim to modulate nerve function and mitigate pain.
- Nerve blocks temporarily block nerve signals and provide short-term relief.
- Botox injections are used to alleviate pain by temporarily paralyzing targeted muscles.
The bottom line
Living with trigeminal neuralgia is a daily battle against pain, both physical and emotional. Understanding trigeminal neuralgia and effective treatment approaches can help with its demystification, as well as instilling hope and empathy for those grappling with this debilitating neurological condition.
