How Long Can Trigeminal Neuralgia Pain Last?

The trigeminal nerve is responsible for carrying sensory information from the face to the brain. But when this nerve becomes compressed or damaged, it can result in a condition known as trigeminal neuralgia (TN).

TN is characterized by sudden, severe facial pain, spasms, and numbness that can last from a few seconds to several minutes at a time. Pain can be triggered by even the smallest facial movements and can greatly impact your day-to-day life.

Dr. Raymond Sekula may recommend advanced treatments like microvascular decompression to address trigeminal neuralgia. Call now for an appointment in New York, NY, and see how you can improve your quality of life with our help.

What causes trigeminal neuralgia?

The primary cause of trigeminal neuralgia is compression of the trigeminal nerve. This compression can result from adjacent blood vessels pressing down on the nerve, multiple sclerosis damaging the protective covering of the nerve, or (in rare cases) a tumor pressing on the nerve. In some cases, the cause of the compression may not be known.

Risk factors for developing TN include age (typically affecting individuals over 50), genetics, medical history of high blood pressure or multiple sclerosis, and trauma to the face.

Understanding trigeminal neuralgia symptoms

A commonly known symptom of trigeminal neuralgia is sudden, sharp facial pain. It can be triggered by minor movements of the head, such as talking, chewing, or brushing your teeth. TN pain is typically described as a stabbing or electric shock sensation and can occur in any area of the face where the trigeminal nerve branches reach.

Other symptoms include facial spasms, numbness or tingling in the affected area, and increased sensitivity to touch. These symptoms may come and go, with periods of remission followed by flare-ups of intense discomfort.

How long do trigeminal neuralgia symptoms last?

The duration and intensity of trigeminal neuralgia symptoms vary from person to person. Some experience frequent episodes of pain, while others have longer periods of remission. The duration of a TN episode also lasts anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes or even hours. Tracking your facial pain or keeping a journal may be helpful in diagnosing trigeminal neuralgia and knowing your triggers.

What is microvascular decompression?

Dr. Sekula proudly offers several state-of-the-art treatments for trigeminal neuralgia, including microvascular decompression, in New York, NY. So what is microvascular decompression, and how can it help with TN?

Microvascular decompression is a procedure that involves moving blood vessels and/or other structures away from the trigeminal nerve to relieve the excess pressure. By taking this pressure off of the nerve, we can reduce or get rid of facial pain, spasms, numbness, and more.

While microvascular decompression may not be suitable for everyone, it has been shown to provide long-term relief for many individuals. Dr. Sekula can offer information about surgery, recovery, and potential side effects during a consultation.

Find relief from TN pain with our help

Do you have questions such as "How long does trigeminal neuralgia pain last?" or "What is microvascular decompression?" Call now to book an appointment and learn about TN. Dr. Raymond Sekula is dedicated to providing top-quality care and helping patients in New York, NY, improve their quality of life. Don't let facial pain control your life — reach out for help now.