A disorder of the trigeminal nerve in which brief episodes of severe, stabbing pain affect the cheek, lips, gums, or chin on 1 side of the face. The disorder usually occurs over age 50. Pain may come in bouts that last for weeks at a time. The cause is uncertain, and pain is often brought on by touching the face, eating, drinking, or talking. Analgesic drugs may be tried, but often, carbamazepine is more effective. If this fails, surgery may help.
Trigeminal neuralgia |
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