Trigeminal neuralgia affects the nerve that supplies feeling to the face. It usually causes brief, very sharp pain on one side, often set off by light touch, washing, chewing, talking, or a breeze. Other kinds of facial pain feel different and have different causes, so the first task is to name the pain correctly.
This page is general information. It does not say what any one person should do.
When people seek care
Reasons people ask about facial pain
- Sudden, electric, or stabbing pain on one side of the face
- Pain set off by touch, washing, talking, or eating
- Pain that is constant, aching, or on both sides — this may be a different problem
- New facial weakness, a rash, tooth pain, or pain after an injury
How a plan is made
What a consultation usually covers
- A careful history, because the story of the pain is the most useful clue
- An examination, and a scan when it will change the decision
- Medicine is usually tried first
- If medicine does not control the pain, or the side effects are hard to live with, a procedure may be discussed. The choice depends on the scans, age, and what the person hopes to get back
An operation is one option among others. It is recommended only when the expected benefit is clear.
This page is for general awareness. It is not a diagnosis or a personal treatment plan. Book a consultation for advice about your own care.