If you’re struggling with trigeminal neuralgia, understanding the causes of this condition is the first step toward effective management and relief.
At Anatomy Chiropractic, we believe in addressing the root causes of pain rather than merely masking the symptoms. We’ll delve into the various trigeminal neuralgia causes, including both common and less common factors that contribute to the development of this condition.
Breaking Down Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensations in the face, including pain, temperature, and touch. The trigeminal nerve is made up of three branches:
- Ophthalmic branch: Covers the forehead, eyes, and scalp.
- Maxillary branch: Covers the cheeks, upper jaw, and teeth.
- Mandibular branch: Covers the lower jaw, teeth, and part of the tongue.
When the trigeminal nerve becomes irritated or damaged, it can cause episodes of severe, stabbing pain that typically affects one side of the face. The pain can occur suddenly and last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. While the pain can subside temporarily, it often recurs, and the intensity may worsen over time.
The condition is more common in individuals over the age of 50, but it can occur in younger people as well. Trigeminal neuralgia can be classified into two main types: classic trigeminal neuralgia and symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia.
What Are the Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia?
The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is still not entirely understood, but there are several known factors that can contribute to the development of this condition. Let’s look at the most common and lesser-known trigeminal neuralgia causes.
1. Blood Vessel Compression
One of the most common causes of trigeminal neuralgia is vascular compression, where blood vessels, typically arteries, put pressure on the trigeminal nerve. This pressure can cause the nerve to become irritated, leading to pain.
Over time, the constant pressure on the trigeminal nerve can damage its protective sheath, known as the myelin. When this happens, the nerve can become hypersensitive, and even a slight touch or a small movement can trigger severe pain.
The blood vessels that typically cause compression are usually located near the base of the skull, where the trigeminal nerve exits the brainstem. As people age, blood vessels may become less flexible, and the risk of compression increases, which is why trigeminal neuralgia is more common in older adults.
2. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is another condition that can cause trigeminal neuralgia. MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to the deterioration or damage of the protective myelin sheath around nerve fibers. When MS causes damage to the myelin of the trigeminal nerve, it can disrupt the normal function of the nerve, leading to the development of trigeminal neuralgia.
While MS is a less common cause of TN, it is a significant one, particularly in younger individuals who may not have the typical age-related risk factors. When MS is the underlying cause of trigeminal neuralgia, it is referred to as symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia.
3. Nerve Damage or Injury
Physical trauma to the face or head, such as from an injury or surgery, can sometimes damage the trigeminal nerve, leading to trigeminal neuralgia. This type of nerve damage can disrupt the normal transmission of sensory signals, causing the nerve to become hypersensitive and leading to the sharp, stabbing pain characteristic of TN.
In some cases, dental work, such as extractions or root canals, can inadvertently damage the trigeminal nerve or cause irritation, resulting in trigeminal neuralgia-like symptoms. If you’ve recently experienced facial or dental trauma, it’s important to consider this as a possible cause of the pain.
4. Tumors and Growths
A tumor or abnormal growth in the region of the trigeminal nerve can also put pressure on the nerve, leading to trigeminal neuralgia. Tumors can be benign or malignant, and their presence may not always be immediately obvious. In some cases, a tumor might press on the trigeminal nerve or its root, causing pain in the affected area of the face.
Though tumors are a less common cause of TN, they should be considered, particularly if the pain is severe and persists or if other neurological symptoms are present, such as headaches or changes in vision. Imaging tests like MRIs are typically used to identify tumors and rule out this potential cause.
5. Aging and Degenerative Changes
As people age, their bodies undergo natural changes that can contribute to trigeminal neuralgia. One of the most significant factors is vascular changes. Over time, blood vessels may enlarge, harden, or lose their elasticity, which can cause them to press against the trigeminal nerve.
In addition to vascular changes, the degeneration of the trigeminal nerve itself can lead to the condition. As the nerve ages, its protective myelin sheath may deteriorate, and the nerve may become more susceptible to irritation, leading to pain.
6. Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation in the body, whether due to autoimmune conditions or persistent infections, can contribute to nerve irritation. Inflammation can affect the trigeminal nerve directly or cause it to become more sensitive to external triggers. For example, inflammation from conditions like sinus infections or TMJ disorders can sometimes mimic or exacerbate the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia.
7. Genetic Factors
While not fully understood, there may be a genetic component to trigeminal neuralgia. Some studies suggest that individuals with a family history of the condition may be more likely to develop it themselves, although the exact genes involved remain unidentified.
Start Your Journey to Finding Relief
Trigeminal neuralgia is a complex condition with several potential causes, including vascular compression, nerve damage, aging, and underlying health conditions like multiple sclerosis. Understanding the various trigeminal neuralgia causes is key to finding effective treatment.
If you or someone you know is experiencing the pain of trigeminal neuralgia, we encourage you to explore how chiropractic care can provide relief. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
