- Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Interviews
Dawn's interview
How did all start?
I had shingles almost exactly a year earlier although the doctors do not say it is related. I thought I had a cavity because the zing would only happen when eating. After going to the dentist and getting xrays every which way I went to my GP. My brother-in-law is a natural path doctor and through text diagnosed me. While at the GP, I told him what my brother-in-law had said and he didn't think that's what it was and sent me to a ENT with a diagnosis of a blocked pituitary gland. Once at the ENT, the doctor knew right away it had nothing to do with my pituitary gland and happened to know my brother-in-law and agreed with his diagnosis and referred me to get an MRI. The MRI confirmed the trigeminal neuralgia and I was referred to a neurologist. This all took about 8 weeks. The neurologist has referred me to a neurosurgeon and I am still waiting to see him.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes, it took 8 weeks to get an "official diagnosis" , but if my doctor would have listened to what my brother-in-law had suggested I would have had an unofficial diagnosis at one week.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I am currently on Gabapentin and will be seeing the neurosurgeon soon.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Washing my face, brushing my teeth, putting on makeup, eating, wind
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
My family and friends have been very supportive.
What things have you stopped doing?
I didn't eat for like a week when it first started. But with Gapapentin I can function.
What do you think about the future?
I am scared It will get worse and I will live with chronic pain for the rest of my life.
