Re: Trigeminal Neuralgia

Posted By CCF MD GS on December 18, 1998 at 11:59:10:

In Reply to: Trigeminal Neuralgia posted by Mary on December 17, 1998 at 10:00:38:






I have been recently diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia which began after dental work, specifically a root canal and, then, apicoectomy.  The pain is very much focused in the gum around the affected tooth, but spikes into my face when it really gets going.  The pain in the gums is fairly constant.  From what I have read, this is not typcial T.N.  My question is, do situations like this ever resolve themselves?  My doctor has suggested Tegretol (100-200 mg on an as-needed basis), but I find I cannot work while taking the medication because it makes me so spaced out.  Everything I read about T.N. on various Web sites is horrifically scary.  Am I inevitably going to be faced with increasing pain and disabilty, or do these cases sometime simply resolve themselves, and if so how long can it take?  I'd appreciate any information you could provide.



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Thanks for the question. As you know TN is felt within the distribution of one or more of the divisions of the trigeminal nerve. The pain is often triggered by stimuli to skin, mucosa, or teeth innervated by the trigeminal nerve on the same side. The pain is usually discribed as electric like, or shooting or lancinating pain. Attacks usually last seconds but may blur into more constant attacks. A vascular theory has been proposed but most cases the cause is unknown. It begins after the age of 40 in 90 % of people. Development prior to age 40 has been found in association with MS. Once TN has developed it is likely to be an exacerbating and remitting course over many years. It is not uncommon that people will complain of problems after dental procedures but infection and other things need to be ruled out. Whether or not to taake medication is up to you. Your case sounds alittle more like atypical facial pain then TN per sa. Good luck
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your doctor regarding diagnostic and treatment options.