Trigeminal neuralgia

Description

A long-lasting pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve in the face.

Overview

Trigeminal neuralgia affects the nerve that carries signals from the face to the brain. It causes brief periods of intense pain that feel similar to an electric shock. It's most common in women over age 50.

Symptoms

The main symptom is episodes of facial pain that range from mild to severe and last a few seconds to several minutes. Chewing, speaking or brushing the teeth often triggers the pain.

Treatments

Treatment includes medicines, shots, radiation, procedures and surgery.