Trigeminal Neuralgia: The Suicide Disease that Society Ignores

Trigeminal neuralgia, also known as tic douloureux, is a debilitating condition that causes intense facial pain. Often referred to as the "suicide disease," trigeminal neuralgia can be incredibly difficult to live with, due to the severe and unpredictable nature of the pain. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, people with trigeminal neuralgia can lead fulfilling lives.

What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is the largest of the cranial nerves and is responsible for sensation in the face. The pain is typically felt on one side of the face, and can be triggered by simple activities such as eating, talking, and even the breeze on the face. The pain is often described as a sharp, shooting, electric shock-like sensation, and can be so severe that it is often mistaken for a heart attack.

The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not known, but it is believed to be related to irritation or compression of the trigeminal nerve. This can be caused by a number of factors, including blood vessels pressing on the nerve, inflammation of the nerve, or a tumor. In some cases, the cause is unknown.

Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia

The primary symptom of trigeminal neuralgia is intense facial pain. The pain is typically felt on one side of the face, and can be triggered by simple activities such as eating, talking, and even the breeze on the face. The pain can be so severe that it is often mistaken for a heart attack.

Other symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia can include:

Twitching or muscle spasms in the face0

Tingling or numbness in the face

Difficulty speaking or eating

Facial weakness

Diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia is typically made through a combination of a physical examination and a patient's medical history. A neurologist will typically ask about symptoms and triggers, as well as perform a physical examination to check for facial weakness or other signs of nerve damage.

Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, may also be used to help identify any underlying causes of the trigeminal neuralgia, such as a tumor or blood vessel pressing on the nerve.

Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia typically begins with medications to help manage the pain. Anticonvulsant drugs, such as carbamazepine, are often used to reduce the frequency and severity of the pain.

If medication is not effective, other options include:

Microvascular decompression: a surgical procedure in which a small portion of the blood vessel pressing on the nerve is removed to alleviate pressure on the nerve

Radiofrequency ablation: a procedure in which a small electrode is used to destroy a small portion of the trigeminal nerve to reduce pain

Percutaneous procedures: a procedure in which a small needle is used to destroy a small portion of the trigeminal nerve to reduce pain

Living with Trigeminal Neuralgia

Living with trigeminal neuralgia can be incredibly difficult, as the pain can be severe and unpredictable. However, with proper treatment, people with trigeminal neuralgia can lead fulfilling lives.

In conclusion, Trigeminal Neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve causing intense facial pain. The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not known but it is believed to be related to irritation or compression of the trigeminal nerve. It can be treated by medication, surgical procedures or percutaneous procedures. People with trigeminal neuralgia can lead fulfilling lives with proper diagnosis and treatment. It is important to work closely with a neurologist to manage the symptoms and find the best course of treatment.