Trigeminal Neuralgia

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

Sudden, severe facial pain
Often feels like an electric shock
Attacks last seconds to 2 minutes
Usually affects one side of the face
Can significantly impact daily life

Overview

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition characterized by sudden, severe facial pain, often described as a sharp shooting pain or an electric shock sensation in the jaw, teeth, or gums. These attacks are unpredictable, lasting from a few seconds to about two minutes, and typically affect only one side of the face. While pain can occasionally affect both sides, it's usually not at the same time. People with this condition may experience regular pain attacks for days, weeks, or months. Periods where the pain improves or disappears (remission) can occur, but these tend to become shorter over time. Some individuals may also develop a continuous aching, throbbing, or burning sensation, sometimes alongside the sharp attacks. The condition is usually caused by compression of the trigeminal nerve, which transmits sensations from the face to the brain. This compression often results from a nearby blood vessel pressing on the nerve. Other causes include nerve damage from conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) or a tumor. Attacks can be triggered by light touch, eating, brushing teeth, wind, or facial movements, though they can also happen without a clear trigger.

Signs and Symptoms

Sudden, severe facial pain
Sharp shooting pain
Electric shock sensation
Pain in jaw, teeth, or gums
Attacks lasting a few seconds to 2 minutes
Pain typically on one side of the face
Continuous aching, throbbing, or burning sensation (less common)

Things That Increase the Risk

Compression of the trigeminal nerve by a blood vessel
Damage to the trigeminal nerve from multiple sclerosis (MS)
Presence of a tumor near the nerve
Being female
Age between 50 and 60 (rare under 40)

Diagnosis

Consult a doctor for frequent or persistent facial pain
Rule out dental causes for pain
Doctor asks about symptoms and medical history
May take time to confirm diagnosis

Treatment & Management

Anticonvulsant medicine (carbamazepine)
Gradually increasing medication dose
Alternative medicines if primary treatment is ineffective
Minor surgical procedures to damage the nerve
Major surgery to move compressing blood vessels (microvascular decompression)

Prevention

Identify and avoid personal pain triggers
Manage underlying conditions like multiple sclerosis
Adhere to prescribed medication regimen
Regular medical follow-ups for monitoring

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Trigeminal Neuralgia: