Living with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) can feel like a never-ending battle. The intense, sharp facial pain can disrupt your everyday activities and diminish your quality of life, but there is hope. There are various treatments and pain management strategies that can help ease your pain.
Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia
TN is a chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, responsible for transmitting sensations from your face to your brain. Even mild stimulation of your face—such as brushing your teeth or applying makeup—can trigger a jolt of excruciating pain. The pain is often described as severe, sudden and shock-like, causing significant distress and disruption to daily life.
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Recognizing the symptoms of TN is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Individuals with TN experience severe facial pain, typically on one side of the face. The pain can last from a few seconds to several minutes. Other symptoms include:
- Sudden, intense attacks of pain.
- Pain triggered by routine activities like eating, speaking, or touching the face.
- A burning or aching sensation that may persist between episodes.
Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment at Valley Health System
At Valley Health System we understand the challenges of living with TN. Our specialized team provides comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans to help you manage your symptoms effectively.
Microvascular Decompression Surgery
Patients with TN that have not responded well to medications may decide to explore other treatments. Microvascular decompression surgery is surgical procedure during which a small hole is opened in the skull and a neurosurgeon places a small cushion between the trigeminal nerve and blood vessels that are pressing against it. Relieving that contact usually stops the pain. It is effective in about 80% of patients, but it does carry certain risks, such as the possibility of:
- Cerebral spinal fluid leak
- Hearing loss
- Facial numbness
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery
Patients may also discuss treating their TN with Gamma Knife Radiosurgery. Gamma Knife is a noninvasive procedure that uses precise radiation to deaden the part of the nerve that is overreacting while allowing other signals to go through. The procedure is nearly painless and is performed as an outpatient procedure, so you can go home just a few hours after the procedure.
In addition, patients undergoing this treatment option may continue their TN medication before and during Gamma Knife treatment—until they and their physician decide it is time to see if the medications are no longer needed. About 80% of patients undergoing Gamma Knife Radiosurgery experience significant or complete relief from their TN pain.
Contact Us
If you’d like to learn more about treatment options for TN or find out if you’re a candidate for Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, call 201-634-5610.
