Trigeminal neuropathy

[toadyboat]

is there any way to manage trigeminal neuropathy (not neuralgia)? I regularly get 2-3 extreme episodes a month. There is constant pain in my entire head ,face and throat. When it flares up it lasts 3 days before I can actually talk or drink much.Cannot be effectively treated is the answer  I have received from my pain specialist. Have gone off all narcotics, opiods, etc.I also have hypo-thyroidism, a deformed bone in lower spine, scoliosis, severe fibromyalgia, tinitus , highh cholesterol (inherited ) , arthritus,and many allergies.Is any of this related to another, underlying condition? Should I persue further posibilities with my GP?I am 57 yrs old, female, six pregnancies and five deliveries. I was diagnosed as having a "nervous breakdown" at age 10, experiencing depression (Sometimes severe) on several occasions. the trigem neurop is the worst, though, and I would be ever grateful for some input on this. I have had my husband hide my left over narcs,etc so I won't do something stupid when these attacks occur.Thank-you for any help.

[alydh2001]

I just came from ER in my home town and was diagnosed with triigeminal neuropathy. I thought it was something serious going on since i just had a sinus infection. I have never heard of this and I understand you when you say you hide your meds. It is the most excrutiating pain I have ever had in my life. If it doesnt get better within a few days I will definately see anouther doctor, there is no way to live with this pain. I am diabetic so I knew about neuropathy but never knew you couls get it in the face. Hope things go well for you.

[painterchic]

Sorry, this sounds terrible for you. Have you tried some of the anitseizure or antidepressants to at least minimize the intensity of the attacks or maybe reduce the frequency? Have you tried the usual like Tegretol, Neurontin?Are you on any depression meds or mood stablizers already? Many people use Lyrica or Cymbalta for this and it also helps with the FM. What about non medical treatments like hot packs or ice, a personal preference, everyone is different. You say you have a pain specialist but have you gotten an MRI or CT scan of your head/seen a neurologist? Just wondering. Good luck to you.