Introduction
Facial pain refers to pain at any part of the face. In general, facial pain is an uncommon symptom. However, facial pain needs to be addressed because if it is often caused by neurological disorders, which usually respond well to treatment.
What are the causes of facial pain?
Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)
TN is a neurological disorder that causes facial pain, which occurs episodically (usually lasting a few seconds). The facial pain usually occurs on one side of the face, starting suddenly and stopping suddenly. The pain is commonly described as a sharp and stabbing pain.
The facial pain is commonly triggered by touching the face (when washing face in the morning) or jaw movement – such as drinking water, eating or speaking.
TN is a nerve disorder that responds well to medications.
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
PHN is another neurological cause of facial pain. It is a complication of a virus infection (Varicella Zoster virus), which causes Shingles, a condition that is characterized by painful blisters at the face (or any other part of the body).
Following Shingles, patients have pain at the affected part of the body, which is known as PHN. It is important to know that PHN responds well to medications.
Sluder’s Neuralgia
This is a neurological condition which is caused by Sinus Infection, affecting the nerve at the face, resulting in one-sided facial pain. Sinuses are the spaces inside the head which are connected to the noses, and located behind the cheek and forehead. Sluder’s Neuralgia responds well to treatment.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis refers to infection of the sinuses, which results in greenish nasal discharges and blocked nose. There is pain at the around the eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead. Sinusitis is treated by the ENT (Ear, nose and throat) specialist.
What will the Neurologist do for patients with facial pain?
The Neurologist will perform physical examination, blood tests and MRI scan of the brain. Some patients will be referred to the ENT specialist.
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