Definition

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition caused by irritation or compression of the trigeminal nerve, leading to sudden, severe facial pain.

Prevalence

Uncommon but more frequent in adults over 50. Slightly more common in women.

Symptoms

• Sudden, electric shock–like facial pain

• Pain triggered by touching the face, brushing teeth, or speaking

• Attacks lasting seconds to minutes

• Pain typically on one side of the face

• Periods of remission between flare-ups

Diagnosis

• Detailed history and neurological examination

• MRI to identify nerve compression or exclude secondary causes

• High-resolution imaging of the trigeminal nerve

Treatment Options

• Medications such as carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine

• Nerve blocks or injections

• Microvascular decompression surgery

• Stereotactic radiosurgery for non-surgical candidates

• Percutaneous rhizotomy in select cases