Trigeminal Neuralgia: Overview of Symptoms and Treatment
Learn about trigeminal neuralgia, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options, including medications, surgical procedures, and home remedies for pain relief.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 28th Aug, 2025
Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain. Often described as one of the most painful conditions, it can cause sudden, severe, and electric shock-like facial pain. If you or someone you know is suffering from this condition, understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help manage the pain effectively.
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
The trigeminal nerve is one of the largest nerves in the head, responsible for facial sensations like touch, pain, and temperature. When this nerve is irritated or damaged, it can lead to intense facial pain, known as trigeminal neuralgia.
The pain is usually brief but extremely sharp, often triggered by simple activities like brushing teeth, chewing, talking, or even a light breeze on the face. While it is not life-threatening, the condition can significantly impact daily life.
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
The most common symptoms include:
- Sudden, severe pain – Often described as sharp, stabbing, or electric shock-like pain in the cheek, jaw, teeth, gums, or lips.
- Pain episodes – Lasting from a few seconds to a couple of minutes, sometimes occurring in clusters.
- Triggered by mild actions – Simple activities like eating, drinking, talking, or touching the face can set off pain.
- One-sided pain – Typically affects only one side of the face, though rare cases may involve both sides.
- Pain-free intervals – Some people may experience periods without pain, but it often returns unpredictably.
If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but common triggers include:
- Nerve compression – A blood vessel pressing on the trigeminal nerve is the most frequent cause.
- Aging – The condition is more common in people over 50.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) – TN can occur in people with MS due to nerve damage.
- Injury or surgery – Facial trauma or dental procedures may sometimes trigger it.
- Tumors (rarely) – A tumor pressing on the nerve can also cause pain.
How is Trigeminal Neuralgia Diagnosed?
Since there’s no single test for TN, doctors rely on:
- Medical history & symptoms – Describing the type, location, and triggers of pain.
- Neurological exam – Checking facial sensation and reflexes.
- MRI scans – To rule out other conditions like tumors or MS.
If you suspect TN, booking a consultation with a neurologist can help confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Trigeminal Neuralgia
While there’s no cure, several treatments can help manage pain:
1. Medications
- Anticonvulsants (e.g., Carbamazepine, Gabapentin) – Often the first line of treatment to reduce nerve pain.
- Muscle relaxants (e.g., Baclofen) – Sometimes used in combination with other drugs.
- Pain relievers – Stronger medications may be prescribed if standard painkillers don’t work.
2. Surgical & Non-Surgical Procedures
- Microvascular decompression (MVD) – A surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve.
- Gamma Knife radiosurgery – Uses radiation to target and damage the nerve, reducing pain signals.
- Nerve blocks & injections – Temporary pain relief by numbing the nerve.
Consult an Neurologist for the best advice
3. Lifestyle & Home Remedies
- Avoid triggers – Identify and minimize activities that worsen pain (e.g., cold wind, chewing hard foods).
- Gentle facial care – Use lukewarm water for washing and a soft toothbrush.
- Stress management – Relaxation techniques like meditation may help reduce flare-ups.
- Healthy diet – Some patients find relief by avoiding very hot, cold, or spicy foods.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience severe facial pain that:
- Doesn’t improve with over-the-counter painkillers.
- Interferes with daily activities like eating or speaking.
- Becomes more frequent or intense over time.
Seeking early medical help can prevent unnecessary suffering and improve quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Living with trigeminal neuralgia can be challenging, but effective treatments and lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference. If you suspect you have TN, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.
For expert advice and consultation, you can book an appointment with a neurologist on Apollo 24|7 and take the first step toward pain relief.
Would you like to schedule a consultation or learn more about treatment options? Visit Apollo 24|7 today!
Consult an Neurologist for the best advice
Consult an Neurologist for the best advice
Dr. Sarthak Mehta
Neurologist
6 Years • MBBS , MS Mch ( Neuro )
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Ganeshgouda Majigoudra
Neurologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD ( GENERAL MEDICINE) DM (NEUROLOGY)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Uddalak Chakraborty
Neurologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD(GENL.MED.),DM(NEUROLOGY)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Dr. Meghraj Singh Patel
Neurologist
11 Years • MBBS, MD, DM (NEUROLOGY)
Bhopal
Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal
Dr. Andugulapati Santosh Sriram
Neurologist
6 Years • MBBS, MD, DM (NEUROLOGY)
Hyderguda
Apollo Hospitals Hyderguda, Hyderguda
Consult an Neurologist for the best advice
Dr. Sarthak Mehta
Neurologist
6 Years • MBBS , MS Mch ( Neuro )
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Ganeshgouda Majigoudra
Neurologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD ( GENERAL MEDICINE) DM (NEUROLOGY)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Uddalak Chakraborty
Neurologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD(GENL.MED.),DM(NEUROLOGY)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Dr. Meghraj Singh Patel
Neurologist
11 Years • MBBS, MD, DM (NEUROLOGY)
Bhopal
Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal
Dr. Andugulapati Santosh Sriram
Neurologist
6 Years • MBBS, MD, DM (NEUROLOGY)
Hyderguda
Apollo Hospitals Hyderguda, Hyderguda
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