Trigeminal Neuralgia

A severe facial pain disorder of the trigeminal nerve, classically presenting as brief, shock-like paroxysms.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Published: February 1, 2026

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a facial pain disorder affecting 4–13 per 100,000 people annually, with a female predominance and onset typically after age 50. The ICHD-3 defines classical, secondary, and idiopathic subtypes based on imaging findings.

Classical trigeminal neuralgia is caused by neurovascular compression of the trigeminal nerve root, most often by the superior cerebellar artery, leading to focal demyelination. Secondary forms may result from multiple sclerosis or cerebellopontine angle tumors.

The pain is paroxysmal, unilateral, lancinating, and limited to one or more divisions of the trigeminal nerve, most often V2 and V3. Attacks last seconds to less than two minutes and are often triggered by innocuous stimuli such as chewing, shaving, or light touch.

High-resolution MRI with 3D sequences is recommended for all new cases to evaluate for neurovascular contact and secondary causes.

Symptoms

Sudden severe, electric-shock-like unilateral facial pain

Pain triggered by eating, talking, shaving, or light touch

Pain limited to one or more trigeminal divisions (most often V2, V3)

Paroxysms lasting seconds to under two minutes

Pain-free intervals between attacks, though remissions may shorten over time

Associated interictal dull background pain in some patients

Risk Factors

Age over 50

Female sex

Multiple sclerosis

Family history of trigeminal neuralgia

Hypertension and cardiovascular disease

Prior dental or facial surgery in some cases

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

New severe unilateral facial pain triggered by innocuous stimuli
Facial pain with sensory loss or other neurological findings (possible secondary cause)
Pain that is not controlled or that breaks through first-line therapy

Treatment Methods

Carbamazepine as first-line therapy, titrated to effect and tolerability

Oxcarbazepine as alternative first-line with better tolerability profile

Add-on agents: lamotrigine, baclofen, gabapentin, or pregabalin

Microvascular decompression of the trigeminal nerve in fit patients with classical compression

Percutaneous procedures (radiofrequency thermocoagulation, glycerol rhizotomy, balloon compression)

Stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma Knife) for patients unsuitable for open surgery

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.