How To Treat Trigeminal Neuralgia?

How to treat trigeminal neuralgia? The pain associated with this condition is often described as the most severe known to man, earning it the nickname "the suicide disease." Those who have never experienced it can hardly understand the intensity of the pain. In clinical settings, we frequently encounter patients suffering from this condition, and many have expressed unbearable distress during flare-ups. Some have even contemplated suicide due to the excruciating discomfort.

Understanding Treatment Options

So, how should trigeminal neuralgia be treated? The most important thing to understand is that enduring the pain silently is never a solution. Left untreated, the condition worsens over time and does not resolve on its own. The first step in managing trigeminal neuralgia is adopting a positive mindset and seeking timely medical intervention. Many patients lose hope and discontinue treatment, which is not advisable.

Why Some Treatments May Not Work

One reason for treatment failure is the use of inappropriate methods. For instance, some patients try alternative therapies like acupuncture or massage, which can sometimes aggravate symptoms by triggering pain points or even damaging nerves. While these approaches may help with other conditions, they are generally not recommended for trigeminal neuralgia.

Effective Treatment Approaches

There are two primary treatment methods widely accepted by the medical community: medication and microvascular decompression surgery. Both have been clinically proven and internationally recognized as effective interventions for trigeminal neuralgia.

Medication for Symptom Management

Drug therapy, particularly with medications like carbamazepine, is often the first line of treatment. These medications can help reduce the intensity and frequency of pain episodes. However, they come with potential side effects and may not work for everyone. Some patients develop resistance or experience no relief at all.

Microvascular Decompression Surgery: A Long-Term Solution

When medication fails, microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery is considered the most effective solution. This procedure addresses the root cause of the pain by separating the blood vessels that are compressing the trigeminal nerve. Once the pressure is relieved, the nerve can function normally again, and pain typically disappears almost immediately after surgery.

Why Microvascular Decompression Works

Performed under general anesthesia, MVD involves making a small incision behind the ear to access the affected area. Using a high-powered microscope, surgeons carefully separate the blood vessels from the nerve root. This minimally invasive technique is known for its high success rate, short recovery time, minimal discomfort, and low risk of complications.

Microvascular decompression is currently the only treatment that can completely relieve trigeminal neuralgia while preserving nerve function. It offers patients a significant improvement in quality of life and has become the gold standard in treating this debilitating condition. With its proven track record and excellent clinical outcomes, it continues to be the preferred choice for many neurosurgeons and patients alike.