Headache & Facial Pain Specialist, Singapore
TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA
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Facial pain can arise from various sources, and one such cause is Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN), a condition that impacts the Trigeminal Nerve responsible for facial sensation and the masseter muscle. TN manifests as intense, often episodic pain localized to one side of the face. Described as resembling electric shocks, this debilitating condition can severely impede everyday activities such as brushing teeth, eating, and speaking. Regarded as one of the most excruciating medical conditions, TN significantly affects the quality of life for those afflicted.
Symptoms
Diagnosis Trigeminal Neuralgia is a clinical diagnosis. MRI scans of the brain are often ordered in patients with suspected Trigeminal Neuralgia. These specialised scans help to exclude any space-occupying lesions near the Trigeminal Nerve as it exits from the brain. Apart from this, it can also identify if there are any blood vessels near the nerve that may be causing nerve irritation. Nevertheless, an MRI abnormality is not required for the diagnosis of this condition. There are many patients with TN who have a normal MRI scan. Treatment Trigeminal Neuralgia is not curable. However, most cases of Trigeminal Neuralgia can be treated successfully with medications. These medications include anticonvulsants (eg. Carbamazepine, Oxcarbazepine, Lamotrigine & Gabapentin), antidepressants (eg. Nortriptyline) and Baclofen. However, some patients may not have adequate pain relief with these medications. In these patients, more invasive treatment may be needed. Eg.
Dr Christopher Liu has expertise in the treatment of Headaches & Facial Pain and offers a wide range of minimally invasive treatment options for Trigeminal Neuralgia. |
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