Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain. If you have trigeminal neuralgia, even mild stimulation of your face — such as from brushing your teeth or putting on makeup — may trigger a jolt of excruciating pain.<br /><br />You may initially experience short, mild attacks. But trigeminal neuralgia can progress and cause longer, more-frequent bouts of searing pain. Trigeminal neuralgia affects women more often than men, and it's more likely to occur in people who are older than 50.<br /><br />Because of the variety of treatment options available, having trigeminal neuralgia doesn't necessarily mean you're doomed to a life of pain. Doctors usually can effectively manage trigeminal neuralgia with medications, injections or surgery.<br />Condition: Trigeminal neuralgia. <br />Typical main clinical features: Severe lancinating pain often associated with trigger zone. <br />Diagnosis: Clinical mainly. <br />Investigations: Skull base CT, MRI. <br />Management: Avoid trigger zone. Carbamazepine +- phenytoin, gabapentin, baclofen or clonazepam