Trigeminal Neuralgia Turkey

Trigeminal neuralgia Turkey is a neurological condition characterized by severe and chronic pain that affects the facial nerve. There are 12 nerve bundles in the face, called cranial nerves, which enable sensory transmission. These nerve bundles allow individuals to experience sensations such as taste, smell, sight, and touch. The trigeminal nerve is one of these nerves. It is responsible for detecting facial sensations and controlling the chewing muscles in the jaw. Abnormalities affecting this nerve can cause individuals to experience intense pain attacks from time to time. This painful condition affecting the trigeminal nerve is known as trigeminal neuralgia in medical terminology.

Trigeminal neuralgia can severely impact an individual’s daily life and reduce quality of life if left untreated. Additionally, the symptoms experienced by the individual may worsen over time. Therefore, it is highly recommended that treatment for trigeminal neuralgia is not neglected. In the following sections, we will answer questions such as “How is trigeminal neuralgia treated?”, “How is trigeminal neuralgia diagnosed?”, “How is trigeminal neuralgia recognized?” and “What are the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia?”. For more detailed information about trigeminal neuralgia treatment in Turkey, its symptoms, and related topics, please continue reading.

What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, also known as the facial nerve, leading to severe pain attacks. Abnormalities in the trigeminal nerve cause intense, brief, and electric shock-like pain sensations. These recurring attacks of pain are typically short-lived, and between attacks, the individual can continue their normal activities. Trigeminal neuralgia can be triggered even by simple actions such as eating or speaking, leading individuals to develop preventive but disruptive habits to avoid these painful episodes.

What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?

The causes of trigeminal neuralgia include:

• Pressure on the trigeminal nerve from the cerebellar artery.

• Damage to the trigeminal nerve.

• Compression of the nerve due to a tumor in the area.

• Physical trauma.

• Multiple sclerosis (MS).

In addition, stress, fatigue, and other neurological disorders can trigger trigeminal neuralgia. As people age and nerve sheaths wear out over time, the pain can become more pronounced and severe.

What are the Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia include:

• Sudden, sharp, and intense pain on one side of the face, often described as electric shocks or stabbing sensations. These pains usually last for a few seconds and can recur multiple times throughout the day due to various triggers.

• Sensitivity in the facial area.

• Tingling sensations on the face.

Over time, the pain may become more severe due to nerve sheath damage, and the frequency of attacks may increase.

How to Differentiate Trigeminal Neuralgia Pain?

Trigeminal neuralgia pain is typically felt on one side of the face and is described as sudden, intense electric shock-like pain. The pain radiates along the nerve, often mistaken for tooth pain. However, tooth pain is usually more prolonged, while trigeminal neuralgia pain is brief but can occur multiple times throughout the day in the same region of the face. Unlike migraine or sinusitis pain, trigeminal neuralgia pain is short-lived and typically triggered by specific movements (eating, speaking, or jaw muscle activity) or light touch. Migraine and sinusitis pain have different triggers and last longer.

How is Trigeminal Neuralgia Diagnosed?

To diagnose trigeminal neuralgia, the doctor first takes the patient’s medical history and performs a neurological examination. If necessary, MRI or CT scans may be performed to assess factors that may be compressing the trigeminal nerve. The results from these tests are thoroughly examined, and if the findings point to trigeminal neuralgia, a diagnosis is made.

Which Doctor Should I See for Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment?

Individuals suspected of having trigeminal neuralgia should consult with a specialist in neurosurgery, particularly a doctor who has expertise in brain and nerve surgery, for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Is Trigeminal Neuralgia Temporary?

Trigeminal neuralgia continues to cause pain attacks as long as the underlying cause remains. If the factor causing pressure or damage to the trigeminal nerve is eliminated, the condition can be cured along with the pain it causes.

How is Trigeminal Neuralgia Treated?

Several treatment methods are available for trigeminal neuralgia. Initially, patients are prescribed various medications as part of medical treatment. However, due to the development of tolerance over time or further deterioration of the nerve sheath, these medications may become ineffective in reducing pain or preventing attacks. In such cases, or when patients wish to avoid long-term reliance on medication, surgical options can be considered.

How is Trigeminal Neuralgia Surgery Performed?

Microvascular decompression surgery is performed to relieve pressure on the trigeminal nerve. This operation, performed under general anesthesia, is painless and successfully eliminates pain in 9 out of 10 patients, often allowing them to stop using medication altogether.

How Long Does Trigeminal Neuralgia Surgery Take?

Trigeminal neuralgia surgery typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on the specific details of the surgery. Non-surgical treatments (such as medication) continue as long as the patient experiences symptoms (often lifelong).

Cost of Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment in Turkey 2026

The cost of trigeminal neuralgia treatment in Turkey varies depending on the specifics of the procedure and other related factors.