What it is
Attacks can last from a few seconds to about 2 minutes and may come in bursts for days or months.
An anti-seizure medicine called carbamazepine is usually the first treatment. If medicines do not help, surgery or other procedures may be offered.
Common signs
- Sudden, severe stabbing or shooting pain in the face
- Pain on one side of the face
- Attacks triggered by touch, eating, talking or cold air
- A constant aching or burning feeling between attacks in some people
How it is usually diagnosed
- Questions about the pain
- Examination
- Sometimes an MRI scan
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- GP or neurology letters
- MRI reports
- Medicine lists and dose changes
- A pain diary
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which medicine would you recommend?
- What side effects should I watch for?
- When would surgery be considered?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Face pain with weakness, numbness, vision problems or confusion: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.