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Trigeminal Neuralgia Fact SheetTrigeminal neuralgia treatment at UK HealthCare What is trigeminal neuralgia? Trigeminal neuralgia (tri-jeh-mih-null ner-all-juh), also known as tic douloureux (tik do-luh-rew), is a painful condition that affects the trigeminal nerve or fifth cranial nerve. The trigeminal nerve, one of the largest nerve in the head, is responsible for detecting touch, pain, temperature and pressure in areas of the face between the jaw and forehead and around the eyes. Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by a sudden, intense, “stabbing” or “shocklike” facial pain typically felt on one side of the jaw or cheek. Trigeminal neuralgia affects slightly more women than men. The first episode of facial pain usually occurs in people 50 to 70 years old. Although children and young adults may experience trigeminal neuralgia, it is rare in people younger than 40. Symptoms An attack of trigeminal neuralgia can last from a few seconds up to two minutes. Most people describe the pain as excruciating, sharp, stabbing, piercing, burning or like an electric shock. Attacks may begin as short and mild but can become longer and more frequent as the condition progresses. Approximately 50 percent of patients report a specific trigger point or zone on the face. The zone is usually located between the lips and nose. A touch or temperature change in this area can trigger an episode. A tingling sensation or numbness is sometimes experienced before the pain. Diagnosing trigeminal neuralgia Your doctor will review your medical history and ask questions about your symptoms. This will rule Treatment Several treatment options exist for trigeminal neuralgia including drug therapy, Gamma Knife radiosurgery, rhizolysis and microvascular decompression. Medication Your doctor may begin treating your trigeminal neuralgia with anticonvulsant medications. These medications decrease the ability of the trigeminal nerve to send impulses that cause facial pain. As with most medicines, you may experience side effects that include drowsiness, dizziness or nausea. Gamma Knife radiosurgery Gamma Knife radiosurgery uses radiation therapy to inactivate part of the trigeminal nerve. Rhizolysis In rhizolysis, part of the trigeminal nerve is temporarily inactivated by using a heated probe or an injection of the chemical glycerol. These procedures typically provide immediate relief but many patients will have symptoms return during the next several years. Microvascular decompression Microvascular decompression is a surgical procedure where a surgeon repositions the blood vessel that presses on your trigeminal nerve. This procedure is a surgical intervention and requires a healthy candidate. It may not be recommended for patients who have had little success with less invasive interventions. Resources UK HealthCare Gamma Knife Center
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