Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia and Treatment Options in Chesapeake, Virginia
Table of Contents
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain.
Even mild stimulation of your face—such as brushing your teeth or putting on makeup—can trigger a jolt of excruciating pain.
Trigeminal neuralgia is more common in women than in men, and it’s more likely to occur in people over the age of 50.
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Patients with trigeminal neuralgia may experience sudden, severe, and stabbing pain on one side of the face.
These episodes can last from a few seconds to several minutes and may occur in quick succession.
The pain is often triggered by activities such as chewing, speaking, or even a light breeze on the face.
Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia
The primary cause of trigeminal neuralgia is usually contact between a normal blood vessel—either an artery or a vein—and the trigeminal nerve at the base of your brain.
This contact puts pressure on the nerve, leading to malfunction.
Other causes may include multiple sclerosis or a tumor compressing the trigeminal nerve.
Diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Diagnosing trigeminal neuralgia involves a thorough medical history and physical examination.
Doctors may perform neurological examinations to determine which parts of the trigeminal nerve are affected.
Imaging tests, such as MRI scans, can help identify the underlying cause, such as a blood vessel compressing the nerve or multiple sclerosis.
Treatment Options
Several treatment options are available for managing trigeminal neuralgia.
Medications are often the first line of treatment, with anticonvulsants being commonly prescribed to reduce or block the pain signals sent to the brain.
If medications are ineffective or cause significant side effects, surgical options may be considered.
Microvascular decompression is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on the trigeminal nerve by repositioning or removing blood vessels that are compressing the nerve.
Another option is percutaneous rhizotomy, a procedure that selectively destroys nerve fibers to reduce pain.
Gamma Knife radiosurgery is a non-invasive procedure that uses focused radiation to damage the trigeminal nerve and reduce or eliminate pain.
Finding Treatment in Chesapeake, Virginia
For those residing in Chesapeake, Virginia, seeking treatment from experienced healthcare providers is essential.
The Eastern Virginia Medical School's Department of Neurology offers specialized care for patients with trigeminal neuralgia.
Additionally, the Sentara Healthcare system in Chesapeake provides comprehensive neurology services, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options for trigeminal neuralgia.
Consulting with a neurologist or neurosurgeon familiar with the latest treatment modalities can help determine the most appropriate course of action tailored to your specific condition.
For more information on treatment options and to schedule a consultation, visit the Eastern Virginia Medical School's Neurology Department or Sentara Healthcare's Neurology Services.
Eastern Virginia Medical School Neurology Department
Sentara Healthcare Neurology Services
Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing trigeminal neuralgia effectively and improving your quality of life.
Don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if you're experiencing symptoms consistent with this condition.
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