Introduction
The excruciating pain of Trigeminal neuralgia can be overwhelming. The sharp, shooting, electric-shock-like pain gets triggered by simple activities like eating, brushing or even a gentle touch or light breeze on the face. It is listed as one of the most intense facial pains, affecting the quality of life and making day-to-day activities a constant struggle. In Ayurveda, it is correlated with Anantavata, one of the eleven shirorogas, characterised by an imbalance of Tridosha, especially Vata dosha. Ayurveda has a comprehensive treatment protocol that includes oleation- both internal and external to help deal with the pain and discomfort of Trigeminal neuralgia. In this blog, we will discuss some tips on how to prevent and reduce the intensity of trigeminal neuralgia attacks.
Symptoms and causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia
The attacks of Trigeminal Neuralgia can be brief but can occur in rapid succession, leading to intense discomfort –
- Aching pain or numbness on the sides of the face
- Agony lasts from a few minutes to hours
- Pain especially on the gums, teeth, cheek, and jaw area
- Pain reminiscent of an electric shock
- Pain while brushing, talking, laughing, etc.
- Facial spasm
The exact cause of Trigeminal neuralgia is not known, however, several factors might contribute to its development-
- More common in women
- Hypertension
- Smoking
- Family history
- People above 50 years of age
- Injury to nerve
- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Improper dental work
Home Remedies for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia causes sudden, severe, electric-shock-like pain in the face. Home measures may help reduce triggers and provide comfort, but they cannot treat the underlying nerve problem or replace medical treatment.
– Avoid known triggers: Cold air, wind, touching the face, chewing, brushing teeth, or very hot or cold foods may trigger pain in some people.
– Choose soft foods: During painful periods, soft foods that require less chewing may be easier to tolerate.
– Keep the face protected: Covering the face in cold or windy weather may help prevent temperature-related triggers.
– Maintain good oral hygiene: Gentle brushing and regular dental care are important, particularly if facial pain makes brushing uncomfortable.
– Manage stress: Relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, and gentle breathing exercises may help with coping with recurrent pain.
– Keep a pain diary: Recording triggers, duration, and severity of pain can help identify patterns and provide useful information to the doctor.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Some Ayurvedic herbs are traditionally used to support nerve and musculoskeletal health. However, there is limited scientific evidence that Ayurvedic herbs can treat or cure trigeminal neuralgia.
– Ashwagandha: Traditionally used to support the nervous system and help the body manage stress.
– Brahmi: Traditionally used for nervous-system support and relaxation.
– Turmeric: Traditionally valued for its anti-inflammatory properties and may be included in some Ayurvedic approaches.
– Guduchi: Traditionally used to support general health and balance inflammatory processes.
– Shatavari: Used traditionally for nourishment and general wellbeing and may be included in personalised Ayurvedic formulations.
Trigeminal Neuralgia vs. Other Facial Pain
Not all facial pain is trigeminal neuralgia. The pattern, location, duration, and triggers of the pain can help distinguish it from other conditions.
– Trigeminal neuralgia: Usually causes sudden, intense, electric-shock-like or stabbing pain on one side of the face. Attacks may last from a few seconds to several minutes and can be triggered by touch, chewing, brushing, or cold air.
– Dental pain: Often comes from a tooth or gum and may be associated with sensitivity, swelling, tooth damage, or pain when biting.
– Sinus-related pain: May occur with nasal congestion, facial pressure, discharge, or symptoms of a sinus infection.
– Migraine: Can cause severe head or facial pain and may occur with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound.
– Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain: Usually affects the jaw or area around the ear and may worsen with chewing or jaw movement.
– Other nerve pain: Conditions affecting other facial nerves can also cause burning, tingling, or persistent facial discomfort.
Conclusion
Trigeminal neuralgia is a challenging condition, that can severely impact the quality of life. With Ayurveda home remedies, you can find relief from debilitating pain, although for long-lasting relief, it is recommended to get in touch with an Ayurveda doctor, who can guide you about natural solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
