Trigeminal Neuralgia Trigeminal neuralgia (TN), also known as tic douloureux, is the most common cranial nerve disorder, referring to a recurrent, brief, and severe paroxysmal pain localized within the distribution of the trigeminal nerve. This condition is categorized into primary trigeminal neuralgia (also known as idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia) and secondary trigeminal neuralgia (also known as symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia), and it is neither contagious nor hereditary.

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN), also known as tic douloureux, is the most common cranial nerve disorder, characterized by recurrent sudden, transient, paroxysmal severe pain localized within the distribution area of the trigeminal nerve. This condition is divided into primary trigeminal neuralgia (also known as idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia) and secondary trigeminal neuralgia (also known as symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia), and it is neither contagious nor hereditary.

Based on etiology:

Primary trigeminal neuralgia: Also known as idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is widely accepted that the pathogenesis is related to vascular pulsatile compression due to various reasons. The general treatment approach is to initially opt for medication. It is more commonly seen in patients over 40 years of age and is the most prevalent type in clinical practice.

Secondary trigeminal neuralgia: Also known as symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia, this refers to trigeminal pain caused by a specific underlying cause, such as compression or irritation of the trigeminal nerve by tumors. The principle of treatment is to remove the causative factors such as tumors. It is more commonly seen in patients under 40 years of age.

Based on characteristics of pain symptoms:

Typical trigeminal neuralgia: Pain is paroxysmal, recurrent, with clear intermittent periods, and the intervals are completely normal. There are identifiable trigger actions, and trigeminal nerve function is normal. Primary trigeminal neuralgia is mostly of the typical type.

Atypical trigeminal neuralgia: Pain duration may be prolonged or even continuous, but there can be paroxysmal exacerbations without "trigger points." There may be signs of reduced trigeminal nerve function, such as facial numbness, decreased sensation, delayed corneal reflex, weakened or atrophied chewing muscles. Secondary trigeminal neuralgia is mostly of the atypical type.

Primary trigeminal neuralgia

This is the most common type in clinical practice, and the exact cause is unknown. The widely accepted explanation is that vascular (arterial or venous) compression leads to functional impairment of the trigeminal nerve.

Secondary trigeminal neuralgia

It is caused by various organic lesions inside and outside the skull (such as tumors, inflammation, trauma) leading to secondary damage of the trigeminal nerve, resulting in trigeminal neuralgia.

Primary trigeminal neuralgia

It is often accompanied by facial flushing, sweating, increased skin temperature, drooling, dilated pupils, tearing, rhinorrhea, nasal mucosal congestion, and swelling on the affected side.

Secondary trigeminal neuralgia

It is often accompanied by signs of trigeminal nerve paralysis, such as decreased facial sensation, paralysis of the chewing muscles on the affected side, weak biting, and delayed corneal reflex.

For patients: Arrange daily activities and work reasonably, balance work and rest, and maintain a relaxed and cheerful attitude in life. Take medication regularly and on time. If headaches, drowsiness, or other symptoms occur, after ruling out other diseases, pay attention to the side effects of the medication and seek medical advice to adjust the treatment. If there are changes in the condition, such as unexplained worsening of pain, increased frequency, or other discomfort, seek medical attention promptly.

For family members: Remind patients to take medication on time, and pay attention to the time, frequency, and feelings of the patient's attacks. If any changes or worsening of the condition are noticed, inform the patient to seek medical attention promptly.

During treatment, patients with trigeminal neuralgia should adopt a healthy lifestyle, avoid overexertion, avoid staying up late, maintain a regular daily routine, stay relaxed, avoid excessive tension, and mental stimulation.

Pay attention to keeping the face warm and avoid exposure to wind, especially direct air from air conditioning.

Be gentle when brushing teeth and washing the face, avoid using water that is too hot or too cold, and avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods. Choose soft foods and avoid excessive chewing.

Avoid alcohol consumption as it may raise blood pressure or cause emotional excitement, worsening trigeminal neuralgia symptoms.

Maintain a regular diet, choose soft and easy-to-chew foods. Avoid consuming overly stimulating, excessively sour, or sweet foods.

Participate in physical exercise appropriately, exercise regularly, and improve physical fitness.