Trigeminal Neuralgia

Also called tic douloureux, is an intensely painful nervous system disorder in which there are chronic sudden episodes of an extreme burning sensation on parts of the face that last from a few seconds to a few minutes.    This can severely impact quality of life.  These episodes come and go, and the interval between them shortens with time.  It affects mostly people over 50, and more women than men.  People with multiple sclerosis are at greater risk.  Treatment may include anticonvulsants, ant-epileptic drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, and surgery, depending on the cause.