Trigeminal Neuralgia
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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Trigeminal (tri-JEM-i-nal) neuralgia (noo-RAL-jah) (TN), also known as tic douloureaux is a painful disorder of the trigeminal nerve. This nerve carries touch, pain, pressure and temperature feelings from the face to the brain. TN may be caused by an abnormal blood vessel or other conditions such as a tumor pressing on the nerve. With TN you may have sudden attacks of severe face pain, triggered by eating, talking, a cold breeze, and other things. Treatments may include medication, radiation, and possibly surgery. Trigeminal neuralgia is a long-term problem, but treatments can help decrease TN symptoms, helping you live with less pain.
AFTER YOU LEAVE:
Medicines:
- Keep a written list of the medicines you take, the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list of your medicines or the pill bottles when you see your caregivers. Learn why you take each medicine. Ask your caregiver for information about your medicine. Do not use any medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, or food supplements without first talking to caregivers.
- Always take your medicine as directed by caregivers. Call your caregiver if you think your medicines are not helping or if you feel you are having side effects. Do not quit taking your medicines until you discuss it with your caregiver. If you are taking medicine that makes you drowsy, do not drive or use heavy equipment.
- Medicine used to treat TM may have side effects. These include confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, forgetfulness, nausea (upset stomach), and sleepiness. Report any of these signs and symptoms to your caregiver.
- Medicine to treat TM may not work as well after using it for awhile. Talk to your caregiver if this happens to you. Other treatments may be needed to decrease your pain.
Ask your caregiver when to return for a follow-up visit. Keep all appointments. Write down any questions you may have. This way you will remember to ask these questions during your next visit.
What can I do to prevent a TN attack?
- Chew food on the side of your mouth that does not have pain.
- Do not touch your face.
- Stay away from blasts of hot or cold air.
- Men may choose to grow a beard to avoid having to shave.
CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:
- Your medicine is not helping the pain.
- You have new unexplained symptoms, such as a rash, easy bruising, fever, sore throat, or mouth sores.
SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:
- You faint or one side of your body is weak.
- You lose feeling in your face, have double vision, or have problems talking.
Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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