Constant Headaches AND Facial Pain

[lil_miss]

I have 2 conditions that started at different times so I'm not sure they're related.  My headaches began out of the blue in Nov. 2007 and are constant.  Before then I had maybe had 5-6 my entire life.  I have had a CT and it was clear.  I have 3 maternal relatives with brain tumours though so I have a family history of cancer.  Then in July 2008 I began having intense facial pain.  I've also had vertigo 3 times since Nov 2007.  Ultrasound ruled out salivary stones, CT of facial bones came up clear, dental X-rays were fine and an panoramic X-rays by an Oral Maxillofacial surgeon determined it was not an oral problem.  I live on meds.  

Soooo, I've now seen a 2nd neurologist, had an MRI yesterday and am seeing a 2nd Maxillofacial surgeon next week for a 2nd opinion.  Any chance you can offer some advice on where to go from here??  I'm at a loss here.  I live in constant pain, my face is numb and I would love a diagnosis rather than a refill on my prescription for a change.  

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

It is difficult to give a clinical opinion without examination. However the possibility of tumors seems almost negligible because your scans of head and face have been clear. It is important to rule out the possibility of neuralgias which can cause headache and facial pain. Neuralgias occur due to irritation of the nerve roots.
Other possibility is chronic migraines which can cause headache and facial pain.
Do keep us posted on the results of your MRI scan as that will help in making the diagnosis.

Thanks

[angeliah87]

I really understand what you are going thru. I have had severe head pain for 2 years now and right and left sided facial pain also. Have you had a spinal tap done?  That is when i started having the facial pain. The first spinal the hit a nerve on the right side and resulted inthe right side facial pain and 2 weeks ago i had to have another one done and thistime they hit a left side nerve!  I had 3 brain bleeds 2 years ago that started all of the head pain and havent gotten rid of the headaches(pain)  since.  The can not find why this is happening to me after several specialist and millions of dollars later!   I cant really help you but just to let you know your not alone!