Trigeminal Neuralgia

What is the life expectancy of someone with Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Life expectancy of people with Trigeminal Neuralgia and recent progresses and researches in Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal Neuralgia is a debilitating condition characterized by severe facial pain that is often described as electric shocks or stabbing sensations. It affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the face to the brain. The pain can be triggered by simple activities such as eating, talking, or even touching the face, making it extremely challenging for individuals to carry out their daily activities.

When it comes to discussing the life expectancy of someone with Trigeminal Neuralgia, it is important to note that this condition itself does not directly impact life expectancy. Trigeminal Neuralgia is not a life-threatening condition, and individuals with this condition can live a normal lifespan.

However, it is crucial to understand that Trigeminal Neuralgia can significantly impact a person's quality of life. The excruciating pain associated with this condition can lead to severe physical and emotional distress. The constant fear of pain can cause anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The pain can also interfere with sleep, leading to fatigue and further exacerbating the overall well-being of the individual.

It is important for individuals with Trigeminal Neuralgia to seek proper medical care and treatment to manage their symptoms effectively. There are various treatment options available, ranging from medications to surgical interventions, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.

Medications such as anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants are commonly prescribed to help alleviate the pain associated with Trigeminal Neuralgia. These medications work by reducing the sensitivity of the trigeminal nerve, thereby providing relief from the intense pain. However, it is important to note that medications may not be effective for everyone, and some individuals may require additional interventions.

In cases where medications fail to provide adequate pain relief, surgical interventions may be considered. One such surgical option is microvascular decompression, where a surgeon moves blood vessels that may be compressing the trigeminal nerve, thus relieving the pain. Other surgical procedures include radiofrequency ablation, gamma knife radiosurgery, and balloon compression.

It is crucial for individuals with Trigeminal Neuralgia to work closely with their healthcare providers to find the most suitable treatment plan for their specific condition. Regular follow-ups and adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary to ensure optimal pain management and overall well-being.

While Trigeminal Neuralgia itself does not impact life expectancy, the impact it has on an individual's quality of life should not be underestimated. The constant pain and associated emotional distress can take a toll on a person's mental and physical health. Therefore, it is essential for individuals with Trigeminal Neuralgia to seek support from healthcare professionals, as well as from friends and family.

With proper management and support, individuals with Trigeminal Neuralgia can lead fulfilling lives and enjoy a normal life expectancy. It is important to stay informed about the condition, explore different treatment options, and maintain a positive outlook despite the challenges posed by this condition.

by Diseasemaps

Trigeminal Neuralgia is for life. Some treatments help. Everybody is different with treatment so search the information.

3/17/17 by Debbie K 1050

It is not fatal but has driven many to suicide .

3/17/17 by Lee 1000

Are well nothing new with this diagnose and we can just hope there come something up that can make it more easy.

3/17/17 by Tanja-Marie 1340

I do not know this info or statistics. But I would think that the greatest issue would be depression and the need for support. It can be difficult to see a positive outcome during the most painful periods. Having good communication with your care providers and understanding your medications. As a complication I see the risk of addiction to the level and types of pain medications that are often diagnosed. Many doctors will readily prescribe narcotics, and if that is the only relief a person can get and the pain is out of control then you must. But I choose to use them only as a last resort. I have read a lot about procedures being performed, to lessen the pain or "kill" the nerve but I am limited in this area.

3/20/17 by Joyce Parton 1000

The life expectancy of someone diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia is the same as it is for the general population; approximately 80 for women, and slightly lower for men. Certainly surgical complications and medication misuse can endanger the lives of those with neuralgia; however, these situations are rare, and most can be avoided by following doctor's orders and seeking medical care from reputable physicians. There has been a lot of scientific progress, recently, in the area of treatment. One such advanced procedure involves the injection of steroids into the nerve, through the area in front of the ear, with ultrasound guidance.

3/21/17 by Sandy 1052

With lot of new research and technology iam sure it's improved

3/21/17 by Hema 1000

I don't know of any differences in life expectancy other than perhaps those that may arise from complications in surgury. As fas as new developments in treatments I have heard of new medications that are in trial and I know of many different surgeries available and therapies. Different treatments work for different peOple, depending on the cause of their trigeminal neuralgias.

3/21/17 by Heidi 1000

While it is known as the suicide disease, TN is not fatal. The name comes from the common misconception that many TN patients kill themselves due to the pain. In reality it's only around 2-3%. That being said, I know the feeling of being in that dark place so if you are feeling low, PLEASE reach out to someone and get the help you need!

5/28/17 by Miranda 690

People with TN have a normal life expectancy, since the condition is not life threatening, even though you might feel as if you are dying during an extremely painful attack... Do not despair, there is always hope, as various treatment options are available, such as medications or surgery. In the olden days, people would often take their own lives because adequate treatment was not available. TNers can often feel very depressed or suffer from anxiety. The unpredictability of the condition can make people feel very anxious about when the next attack is going to occur. In sum, TN can have a serious impact on a person's life and considerably reduce someone's quality of life. The condition is known to completely ruin an individual's life in terms of job security, long-term relationships or family life. Sometimes TN can be a symptom of an underlying auto-immune disorder, such as MS, especially in younger people. A good MRI scan will provide further clarity on the diagnosis. The scan will show lesions on the brain when a person has MS. Surgeries such as MVD also contain the usual risks associated with all types of procedures that require anesthesia. Furthermore, anticonvulsants can have long-term side effects, such as liver or kidney damage. Research is always conducted in order to improve the quality of life of people living with TN and to find new treatments that come with less side effects.

6/12/17 by Margo 3125

Suicide risk approximately 30 times the global average, otherwise similar save for medication influences such as prednisone (diabetes, bone density etc) and lithium (kidney failure)

6/14/17 by John 900

TN dosent affect life duration. it does effect the quality of it .

7/30/17 by Poison Yvy 2015

There is no verifiable information to suggest this disease will alter natural life expectancy.

7/30/17 by Julia 500

The same as any other person.

8/6/17 by Michelle 2050

I don't believe that it has any effect on life expectancy

10/3/17 by Korine 1200

Normal life expectancy

11/23/17 by Carol 800

Again everyone is different I would Google statistic then how awesome to find out it's low so live well , sleep ,drink and eat healthy avoide salt.

2/4/18 by James 2500

I've seen people who have lived with trigeminal neuralgia for multiple decades. Your life expectancy is no different because of a nerve condition. Sadly, many choose to end their pain and suffering which is how we got the nickname of suicide disease

2/23/18 by Alicia 2600

It is not a terminal diagnosis, but it is called the suicide disease for a reason. The pain is the worst pain a person can endure, according to medical history, and there is no cure

5/18/18 by Jackie 1800

First of all, know that Trigeminal Neuralgia is not—I repeat, NOT—fatal. Neither is it the end of the world. You can live a full life. Your life expectancy will vary based on genetics and your own living conditions. Trigeminal Neuralgia neither shortens nor lengthens a person's lifespan. Yes, it is sometimes called the "suicide disease" because some people cannot cope with the pain shocks or do not know where to turn for help. But the good news is that Trigeminal Neuralgia is treatable, and you can live a full and long life.

2/13/20 by Eric 2550

I do not know the answer to that question I think you live as long as you can stand the pain

6/3/20 by Nancy 2250

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