trigeminal neuralgia

trigeminal neuralgia Inflammation of the trigeminal nerve (the fifth cranial nerve) that most commonly causes paroxysms of very intense lightning pain in the areas of the face that the nerve supplies—the lips, eye, nose, scalp, forehead, gums, cheek, and chin—on the involved side of the face. Triggers for attacks can include touching the face, brushing the teeth, putting on makeup, and a soft breeze. Medications that may be effective include anticonvulsants and antidepressants. Neurosurgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerve or to reduce nerve sensitivity. Also known as tic douloureux.