What is trigeminal neuralgia?
A person with trigeminal neuralgia has episodes of severe pain in the face, due to irritation of the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve provides the sense of touch to the cheek, forehead, and the area around the mouth. The most common cause of trigeminal neuralgia is pressure applied to the trigeminal nerve by nearby blood vessels. Trigeminal neuralgia is rare before the age of 40. Attacks of pain from trigeminal neuralgia usually resolve with treatment.

What are the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia?
Symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia include sudden, brief attacks of severe facial pain. The pain is sharp, occurs on one side of the face, and is usually located in the gum, lip, or cheek. Additional symptoms include facial flushing, increased tearing, and excessive salivation.

How does the doctor treat trigeminal neuralgia?
Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia may include oral medications, medication injections, surgery, and radiation therapy.