TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Apr 16, 2017 News

By Dr. Neromini Fagu

Each of us usually has 12 pairs of nerves that transmit signals from our brain to our head and neck. These nerves are known as the cranial nerves and send motor, sensory or mixed (both motor and sensory) impulses. The fifth cranial nerve is called the Trigeminal Nerve. It is the largest cranial nerve and it branches into three divisions, each of which includes both motor and sensory fibres. Together, these nerves provide sensation to the skin of the face and also control the muscles involved in chewing.
Sometimes the trigeminal nerve malfunctions, leading to facial pain that is characterized by sudden and severe stabbing bursts of shock-like or electrical pain usually on one side of the face. This condition is known as trigeminal neuralgia, or tic douloureux as the affected individual sometimes responds with a facial grimace (tic) when they are experiencing the pain. The onset of the pain is sudden and makes whatever you were doing impossible to continue to do.
The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not known but it has been suggested that it may be caused by the compression of the nerve by a blood vessel or by a tumor. Injury to the trigeminal nerve such as from sinus surgery, oral surgery, stroke, or facial trauma may also result in the condition. Also, other medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis may predispose a person to experience the pain.
The type of pain may vary and may be triggered by light stimulation of your cheeks, such as from shaving, washing your face, or applying makeup. Other triggers include brushing teeth, eating, drinking, talking, or being exposed to a light breeze. The trigger zones include the lateral brow, the side of the nostril, and corner of the lip. The pain is usually sudden, shocking, and lasts for a brief moment or up to a minute followed by a period of burning pain.
Diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia consists of a thorough medical history and identifying the type, location, and triggers of the pain. The pain may be confused with dental pain as sometimes it seems to emanate from the teeth and jaw. Some of the questions you may be asked are:
• How often do you experience bouts of facial pain, and have you noticed if anything seems to trigger your facial pain?
• What are your symptoms and where is the location?
• When did you first develop these symptoms?
• Have your symptoms gotten worse over time?
• How long does an attack of facial pain typically last?
• How much are these symptoms affecting your quality of life?
• Have you ever had dental surgery, or surgery on or near your face such as sinus surgery?
• Have you had any facial trauma, such as an injury or accident that affected your face?
• Have you tried any treatments for your facial pain so far – has anything helped?
Facial pain may be due to a variety of conditions so it is important to get an accurate diagnosis. A neurological examination may be done to help determine exactly where the pain is occurring and which branch or branches of the trigeminal nerve is or are involved. You may also be required to do a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of your head to determine if any other underlying medical condition is a factor.
The treatment options for trigeminal neuralgia include medication, surgery, and alternative approaches. Medications are used to alleviate or block the pain signals sent to the brain and include anticonvulsants, muscle relaxing agents, and antidepressants.
Other treatment types include acupuncture, chiropractic, yoga, meditation, nutritional therapy, and vitamin therapy. Individuals usually have various coping mechanisms to deal with this debilitating condition but they may still be vulnerable to depression and a feeling of isolation. Having a good support structure is important in promoting well-being.
Living with trigeminal neuralgia can be difficult, and sometimes patients may neglect their oral health for fear of triggering the pain. However, it is important to maintain good oral health practices at home as well as ensuring regular dental check-ups.

For more information contact OMNI DENTAL at 295 Quamina Street, Georgetown Tel: 227-0025, Parika Tel: 260-3133 or send emails to nerominifagu@hotmail.com.

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