Best Trigeminal Neuralgia Doctors in Hyderabad

Types/Stages of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia primarily presents in two types:

• Type 1 Typical Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN1): This is more prevalent and involves sudden attacks of severe facial pain lasting from a few seconds to several minutes.

• Type 2 Atypical Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN2): Patients experience a constant ache or burning sensation that is less intense than TN1 but more persistent.

Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Symptoms of this condition can vary widely among individuals but generally include:

• Sharp, stabbing, or electric shock-like facial pain

• Pain triggered by routine activities such as speaking, eating, or even light touching of the face

• Episodes of pain lasting from a few seconds to two minutes

• Pain extending from the jaw to areas around the nose and eyes

Tests to Diagnose Trigeminal Neuralgia

At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, the following diagnostic tests are commonly suggested by specialists for chronic facial pain management:

• Physical Examination: A thorough review of the patient’s medical history and symptoms.

• Neurological Examination: Testing touch and reflexes in various facial areas.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): To detect whether a tumour or multiple sclerosis is causing trigeminal neuralgia.

• Reflex Testing: To assess whether reflexes are functioning normally.

• Confirmation Test: The patient’s response to an initial low dose of medication can often confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Trigeminal Neuralgia at Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad

At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, the following diagnostic tests are commonly suggested by doctors for facial pain disorder treatment: 

• Medications:

  The initial approach typically involves the use of medications such as anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants to manage pain and reduce nerve activity.

• Nerve Blocking Injections:

  These injections provide temporary relief by interrupting the pain signals transmitted by the trigeminal nerve.

• Percutaneous Procedures:

  These minimally invasive techniques, including glycerol injections and radiofrequency lesioning, aim to disrupt the pain signals along the trigeminal nerve.

• Microvascular Decompression Surgery:

  This surgical procedure involves repositioning or removing blood vessels that are compressing the trigeminal nerve root, thereby alleviating pressure and stopping pain transmission.