Trigeminal neuralgia, aka tic douloureux, often referred to as the "suicide disease," is a rare and excruciatingly, long-term painful condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, one of the cranial nerves responsible for facial sensation. Living with trigeminal neuralgia can be an immense challenge, as its symptoms can be both physically and emotionally debilitating.
Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological disorder that is characterized by severe, sudden, and recurrent facial pain. The trigeminal nerve, responsible for transmitting sensations from the face to the brain, is typically affected by this condition. The pain is often described as sharp, electric shock-like, and excruciating, lasting only a few seconds to a couple of minutes but occurring repeatedly throughout the day. Trigeminal neuralgia can affect one or both sides of the face, and its intensity can be so severe that it disrupts daily life.
What triggers it?
The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not always clear. In some cases, it can be related to the compression of the trigeminal nerve by blood vessels or other structures. Other potential causes include nerve damage due to multiple sclerosis, trauma, or infections.
Triggers for trigeminal neuralgia can vary from person to
person but often include:
1. Touch:
Even the slightest touch to the affected area, such as brushing teeth, applying
makeup, or a gust of wind, can trigger an episode of excruciating pain.
2. Chewing
or speaking: Activities that involve the movement of facial muscles can trigger
pain.
3. Eating: Consuming hot, cold, or spicy foods can be painful, making mealtime a challenge.
Symptoms:
The primary symptom of Trigeminal Neuralgia is intense
facial pain, typically on one side of the face. Individuals with Trigeminal
Neuralgia often experience sudden, severe, and stabbing pain episodes, which
can last from a few seconds to several minutes.
Some people may also experience:
1. Muscle
spasms in the face, which can be painful and affect facial expressions.
2. Sensitivity
to touch and temperature changes in the affected area.
3. Painful episodes that can last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes but can occur repeatedly throughout the day.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing Trigeminal Neuralgia can be challenging because its symptoms can mimic those of other conditions. Medical professionals rely on a detailed medical history, a thorough neurological examination, and sometimes imaging tests like MRI to rule out other possible causes of facial pain.
Management:
Living with trigeminal neuralgia can be emotionally and physically taxing. However, several strategies can help individuals cope with the condition and improve their quality of life:
1. Medical
Treatment: Managing Trigeminal Neuralgia requires a multidisciplinary approach
involving medication, surgical interventions, and sometimes alternative
therapies. Anticonvulsant medications are commonly prescribed to reduce nerve
firing and control pain. Surgical options include microvascular decompression (MVD),
which involves relocating or removing blood vessels pressing on the trigeminal
nerve, and nerve procedures like gamma knife radiosurgery or rhizotomy.
2. Supportive
Therapies: Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and
physical therapy can offer some relief.
3. Pain
Management Techniques: Learning relaxation and pain management techniques, like
deep breathing and mindfulness meditation, can help reduce the perception of
pain.
4. Support
Groups: Joining a support group for individuals with trigeminal neuralgia can
provide emotional support, as well as the opportunity to share experiences and
coping strategies.
5. Lifestyle
Adjustments: Making lifestyle changes, like avoiding known triggers, can help
reduce the frequency of pain episodes.
6. Educate Yourself: Understanding the condition and its triggers can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
Trigeminal neuralgia is a challenging condition to live with, given its excruciating pain and impact on daily life. However, with the right medical treatment, support, and lifestyle adjustments, many individuals with trigeminal neuralgia find ways to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Dr. Pankti Patel, the best dentist in Ahmedabad and the chief dentist of Teeth Care Centre, has done her masters in Oral Medicine and Radiology. She understands the pain and suffering patients go through while fighting the suicide disease. She not only offers her medical advice and treatment but also guides patients and provides emotional support to such individuals.
If someone is living with trigeminal neuralgia, it's
essential to seek professional medical advice and explore the various coping
strategies to effectively manage the condition. Remember, you are not alone in
this journey, and support is available to help you navigate the challenges of
living with the "suicide disease."
