Bollywood superstar Salman Khan recently opened up, during a talk show, about battling trigeminal neuralgia (TN); a condition so intense that even everyday activities like chewing, brushing your teeth, or a stray strand of hair could trigger excruciating pain. Let’s explore what is this condition and why it has earned the moniker “suicide-disease”.
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain disorder affecting the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensations from the face to the brain. Patients often experience sudden, stabbing, electric shock-like pain in the face. Even the lightest triggers such as, a breeze, brushing teeth, chewing, or hair brushing the skin, is believed to set off severe attacks. This unpredictability makes daily life extraordinarily difficult for those suffering from it.
What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?
The most common cause of TN is vascular compression, where a blood vessel presses on the trigeminal nerve near its root. Many other causes include:
▪ Multiple sclerosis
▪ Tumors pressing on the nerve
▪ Trauma or injury
▪ Sometimes, no identifiable cause (idiopathic)
Why is it Called the “Suicide-disease”?
The pain in trigeminal neuralgia is so intense and excruciating that it has driven people to take their own lives, and it can really disrupt everyday life. That’s why people sometimes call it the “suicide-disease.” But it’s important to remember that TN is treatable, and there’s hope. With the right awareness, early diagnosis, and proper care, people can manage the pain and go back to living normal lives.
Dr. Rahul Chawla, an AIIMS trained Neurologist based in South Delhi and Founder of HealthPil, says:
“Although the pain in Trigeminal Neuralgia is very severe, using terminology like ‘suicidal disease’ should be avoided. There are actually several effective treatment options today. From medications to minimally invasive procedures and advanced surgeries, most patients can get significant relief. The key is early diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to each person, so they can regain their quality of life.”
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
People with trigeminal neuralgia usually describe sudden, sharp, electric shock-like pain in the face that lasts for just a few seconds or minutes. The attacks can happen repeatedly throughout the day and usually affect one side of the face such as the cheek, jaw, teeth, gums, or lips.
Even simple things like talking, eating, shaving, or smiling can trigger pain, which make daily life stressful and exhausting. Also, it’s quite common for patients to feel anxious or start avoiding everyday activities just to prevent another painful episode.
How is Trigeminal Neuralgia Treated?
Treatment begins with medications:
▪ First line: anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine
▪ Other options: gabapentin, baclofen, or lamotrigine
When medications alone aren’t enough, procedures and surgery can be considered:
▪ Microvascular decompression (MVD): The most definitive surgery, where the blood vessel pressing on the nerve is carefully separated.
▪ Gamma Knife radiosurgery: A non-invasive option using focused radiation to target the nerve root.
▪ Percutaneous procedures: Minimally invasive techniques like radiofrequency rhizotomy, balloon compression, or glycerol injection that help interrupt pain signals.
With the right treatment at the right time, most patients can get significant relief and go back to living a normal, active life.
How HealthPil Can Help with Neurological Conditions
We know how challenging neurological conditions like trigeminal neuralgia can be, and HealthPil is here to make managing them easier. Through our platform, you can:
▪ Connect directly with expert neurologists, neurosurgeons, and pain specialists for personalised advice.
▪ Get second opinions on diagnosis, treatments, or medications — all from the comfort of home.
▪ Receive guidance on managing symptoms and daily life, including lifestyle tips to make day-to-day activities easier.
▪ Access ongoing support, helping you navigate medications, procedures, and follow-ups without added stress.
FAQs
Is trigeminal neuralgia curable?
Trigeminal neuralgia can’t always be completely “cured,” but medications and surgical options can provide long-lasting relief for most people.
Can everyday activities trigger TN pain?
Yes, even simple things like eating, talking, brushing your teeth, or a gentle breeze can trigger attacks in affected people.
When should I see a doctor?
If you notice sudden, stabbing facial pain or repeated one-sided episodes, it’s important to see a neurologist early so they can evaluate you and discuss the best treatment options.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Trigeminal neuralgia is a complex condition that requires evaluation and treatment by qualified healthcare professionals. If you or someone you know is experiencing facial pain, consult a neurologist or medical specialist before starting any treatment.
