Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia in New York, NY
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Contact UsWhat is glossopharyngeal neuralgia?
At his office in The Neurological Institute of New York, Dr. Raymond Sekula offers a holistic approach to diagnosing, treating, and monitoring glossopharyngeal neuralgia. Affecting people of all ages, this rare condition causes intense episodes of pain in the tongue, throat, ear, and tonsils, impacting one's quality of life. Our advanced radiologists work hand-in-hand with Dr. Sekula to identify potential structural issues compressing the glossopharyngeal nerves. Additionally, our collaboration with a skilled team of otolaryngologists ensures other potential pain sources are also thoroughly investigated. For more insights into glossopharyngeal neuralgia diagnosis and treatment, reach out to Dr. Sekula at The Neurological Institute of New York.
How Is Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia Diagnosed?
Glossopharyngeal neuralgia is diagnosed through a combination of a detailed medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Dr. Sekula will evaluate symptoms such as sharp throat pain triggered by swallowing or speaking. Diagnostic imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, may be used to rule out other conditions and identify any abnormalities that could be compressing the glossopharyngeal nerve. In some cases, a nerve block test is performed to confirm the diagnosis by temporarily relieving the pain.
How is glossopharyngeal neuralgia treated?
Dr. Sekula provides expert care for individuals affected by glossopharyngeal neuralgia. Several potential treatments exist for those with trigeminal neuralgia: microvascular decompression surgery, which involves moving a blood vessel and inserting a felt cushion between it and the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves through a small incision behind the ear. In specific cases, an ablative procedure might be recommended to interrupt the glossopharyngeal nerve, halting pain transmissions.
Dr. Raymond Sekula Reviews
Dr. Sekula is a very skilled neurosurgeon. His bedside manners were awesome. He performed Glossopharyngeal neuralgia surgery on me in Dec 2017. The surgery didn't work. I feel as though he forgot about me. He is a busy Dr & I get that but to leave a patient in this kind of pain is just wrong. I have no idea who or where to turn to now. All I can do now is pray for God to take this pain away & put this behind me. I am not mad at Dr. Sekula, just dissappointed. I would still recommend him to others b/c he is a very skilled Dr. Racquel Goad
In 2018 I was diagnosed with glossopharyngeal neuralgia which was treated with prescription medication until they became ineffective after three years. Extensive research led me to Dr. Raymond Sekula and within ten days an appointment for micro vascular decompression surgery. The surgery was a complete success. Dr. Sekula is an amazing surgeon, very compassionate, and I feel went out of his way to accommodate my need for surgery. I feel he probably saved my life. He and his office staff were outstanding. Ron Date of surgery-March 9, 2021
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About UsFind Relief from Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
If you are grappling with the challenges of glossopharyngeal neuralgia, there's no need to endure the pain silently. With Dr. Sekula's expertise and advanced treatment options, relief is closer than you think. Reach out to us today at our office in The Neurological Institute of New York in New York, NY, and look forward to a more comfortable tomorrow.
Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia FAQs
Are there any complications associated with glossopharyngeal neuralgia?
While glossopharyngeal neuralgia itself is not life-threatening, the intense pain can significantly affect a person's quality of life. Chronic pain can lead to psychological issues such as anxiety and depression. In severe cases, individuals might avoid eating or drinking due to the fear of triggering pain, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss. Additionally, the condition can interfere with daily activities and social interactions.
How does glossopharyngeal neuralgia affect daily life?
Glossopharyngeal neuralgia can have a profound impact on daily life due to the unpredictability and intensity of the pain episodes. Activities that involve the mouth and throat, such as eating, drinking, talking, and brushing teeth, can become challenging and anxiety-inducing. The fear of experiencing sudden pain may lead individuals to avoid social situations and public speaking. This condition can also affect work performance and overall mental health due to the chronic nature of the pain.
How does glossopharyngeal neuralgia differ from trigeminal neuralgia?
While both conditions involve nerve pain in the face and head, they affect different nerves and have distinct characteristics. Glossopharyngeal neuralgia affects the glossopharyngeal nerve, leading to pain in areas such as the throat, back of the tongue, and ear. Trigeminal neuralgia, on the other hand, involves the trigeminal nerve and typically causes sharp, shooting pain in the face, including the jaw, cheeks, and forehead. The triggers and specific locations of pain help distinguish between the two conditions.
