Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe, shooting facial pain.
This disorder affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for transmitting sensations from the face to the brain.
At Clínica San Román, our Pain Management Unit specializes in alleviating this condition using advanced and personalized therapies that seek to improve patients’ quality of life.
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia causes episodes of intense pain in the face, which can last from a few seconds to several minutes.
This pain is so sharp that it is described as an electric shock or intense stabbing, affecting areas such as the jaw, lips, eyes and forehead.
Causes usually include compression of the trigeminal nerve by a blood vessel, nearby tumors or, in some cases, diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia
The trigeminal nerve has three main branches that control sensations in the upper, middle and lower part of the face.
When this nerve is affected, the normal signals it transmits to the brain are disrupted, causing episodes of excruciating pain.
Some common causes include:
- Vascular Compression: This is the most frequent cause, where a blood vessel presses on the nerve, causing irritation.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Patients with MS may experience trigeminal neuralgia due to damage to the protective myelin sheath covering the nerves.
- Trauma: A blow to the face or previous surgeries in the area can affect the nerve and trigger neuralgia.
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
The main symptom of trigeminal neuralgia is severe, shooting facial pain, which can occur at different times of the day.
These episodes are usually brief, but extremely painful, and may be triggered by common activities such as chewing, talking or even touching the skin of the face.
Other symptoms include:
- Pain that comes and goes intermittently.
- Extreme sensitivity of the face.
- Episodes triggered by mild stimuli, such as brushing teeth or shaving.
Available Treatments
In the Pain Treatment Unit of Clínica San Román, we offer several solutions to treat trigeminal neuralgia, adapted to the characteristics of each patient:
Pharmacological Treatment
Anticonvulsant and antiepileptic drugs, such as carbamazepine, are the first-line treatments to relieve pain caused by trigeminal neuralgia.
These drugs reduce nerve activity, minimizing episodes of pain.
Other drugs, such as muscle relaxants and antidepressants, can also be used to control neuropathic pain.
Nerve Infiltrations and Nerve Blocks
In cases where medications are not sufficient, infiltrations with local anesthetics or corticosteroids around the trigeminal nerve are an effective option.
These procedures temporarily interrupt the transmission of pain signals, providing prolonged relief.
Nerve blocks are used in more severe cases or when other therapies are not effective.
Pulsed Radiofrequency
Pulsed radiofrequency is a minimally invasive treatment that uses heat waves to temporarily deactivate pain signals transmitted by the trigeminal nerve.
This treatment is highly effective for patients who have not found relief with other options, and can provide significant pain reduction for months.
Surgery: Microvascular Decompression
In the most severe cases, where pain is uncontrollable with other treatments, surgery may be an option.
Microvascular decompression is a surgical intervention aimed at eliminating the compression of a blood vessel on the trigeminal nerve.
This technique may offer a long-term solution for many patients.
Neuromodulation
Neuromodulation is an advanced treatment that involves electrical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve, altering the pain signals reaching the brain.
This technique is recommended for patients who do not respond to other treatments and has shown promising results in reducing the frequency and intensity of pain attacks.
Multidisciplinary Approach at San Roman Clinic
At Clinica San Roman, we take a comprehensive and personalized approach to treating trigeminal neuralgia.
Our team of pain specialists works together with neurologists, surgeons and other healthcare professionals to design a treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
This multidisciplinary approach allows us to offer the most advanced and effective solutions, with the goal of controlling pain and improving quality of life.
Tips for Managing Trigeminal Neuralgia
In addition to medical treatment, there are certain measures patients can take to manage trigeminal neuralgia in their daily lives:
- Avoid Triggers: Identify activities that trigger pain, such as chewing hard foods or exposure to sudden temperature changes, and avoid them when possible.
- Stress management: Stress can worsen the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia, so it is advisable to practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing.
- Emotional Support: Trigeminal neuralgia can profoundly affect the patient’s quality of life.
Having the support of family, friends or even support groups can be key to coping with the disease.
Conclusion
Trigeminal neuralgia is a painful and debilitating condition that can significantly affect daily life.
However, with the advanced treatments available at Clinica San Roman’s Pain Management Unit, it is possible to find relief and improve quality of life.
From pharmacological options to minimally invasive procedures such as pulsed radiofrequency and neuromodulation, our team of specialists is committed to providing personalized and effective solutions for each patient.
If you are experiencing symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia, don’t hesitate to contact us for a personalized consultation.
