Trigeminal neuralgia is often described as one of the most excruciating conditions a person can experience. This chronic pain disorder affects the trigeminal nerve — the nerve responsible for sensation in your face — and can cause sudden, severe, electric-shock-like pain.
Understanding what causes trigeminal neuralgia and what causes trigeminal neuralgia to flare up is crucial if you want to manage symptoms and regain a better quality of life.
At Sean’s Massage Center in Pickerington, Ohio, we specialize in helping clients manage chronic pain conditions holistically and naturally. If you are battling facial nerve pain, you’re not alone — and there are ways we can help.
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
The trigeminal nerve has three branches that send sensations from your face to your brain. Trigeminal neuralgia occurs when this nerve becomes compressed, irritated, or damaged, leading to intense, often unpredictable bouts of facial pain.
Even simple, everyday activities like brushing your teeth, eating, or even feeling a light breeze can trigger agonizing pain episodes.
What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?
The primary cause of trigeminal neuralgia usually relates to nerve compression, but several other factors can contribute. Let’s explore:
1. Blood Vessel Compression
The most common cause is a blood vessel pressing against the trigeminal nerve at the base of the brain. This constant pressure can wear away the protective coating (myelin sheath) on the nerve, causing malfunction and pain signals.
2. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis, a disease that damages the myelin sheaths in the nervous system, can cause trigeminal neuralgia, especially in younger individuals.
3. Tumors
In rare cases, tumors pressing on the trigeminal nerve can cause symptoms. While benign or malignant tumors are less frequent causes, they should not be ruled out, especially when facial pain is persistent and unexplained.
4. Facial Trauma
Accidents, dental surgeries, or injuries that affect facial nerves can sometimes lead to the onset of trigeminal neuralgia.
5. Stroke
A stroke affecting the brainstem can damage the trigeminal nerve pathways, leading to facial pain and neuralgia.
6. Other Neurological Diseases
Other degenerative or inflammatory diseases of the nervous system may occasionally trigger trigeminal neuralgia.
What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia to Flare Up?
After the initial onset, flare-ups — periods of sudden, intense pain — can be caused by several factors:
1. Physical Stimulation
- Brushing teeth
- Shaving
- Washing the face
- Smiling or talking
- Eating or drinking
Even mild touch or movement can set off a pain flare.
2. Temperature Changes
Exposure to cold air, strong winds, or extreme heat can trigger flare-ups.
3. Stress and Anxiety
Emotional stress can make nerve pain worse, either by muscle tension or by affecting brain chemistry and pain thresholds.
4. Fatigue
When your body is overworked and under-rested, your nervous system becomes more sensitive, making it easier for pain to erupt.
5. Illness or Infections
Colds, sinus infections, or other inflammatory conditions can irritate the trigeminal nerve and cause symptom flare-ups.
6. Dental Work
Procedures involving the mouth and jaw, such as fillings, extractions, or cleanings, may sometimes trigger flare-ups if the nerve is sensitive.
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
If you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing trigeminal neuralgia, watch for these symptoms:
- Sudden, sharp facial pain (often on one side)
- Episodes lasting from a few seconds to minutes
- Pain triggered by light touch or everyday activities
- A burning or aching sensation between attacks
- Frequent and increasingly severe episodes over time
Early diagnosis and management are key to improving daily life.
Managing Trigeminal Neuralgia Symptoms Naturally
While medication or surgical procedures are sometimes recommended for severe cases, many people benefit from complementary care approaches to manage the symptoms.
At Sean’s Massage Center, we believe in a whole-body approach to pain management, focusing on relaxation, nerve calming, and stress reduction techniques that work alongside your doctor’s care.
Here’s how you can naturally help manage trigeminal neuralgia:
1. Stress Reduction Techniques
Stress plays a major role in triggering and worsening flare-ups. Incorporating techniques like:
- Meditation
- Breathing exercises
- Guided relaxation
- Yoga/stretching
can make a noticeable difference.
2. Gentle Craniosacral Therapy
Gentle manual therapies focusing on the skull, spine, and sacrum can help reduce nerve pressure, improve fluid movement, and relieve facial tension.
3. Acupuncture
Some patients find acupuncture helpful in calming overactive nerves and reducing pain frequency.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
- Protect your face from wind and cold air.
- Use a straw for drinking to avoid mouth movements.
- Prioritize sleep and rest.
- Maintain proper hydration to support nerve health.
5. Nutritional Support
Certain foods rich in B vitamins, magnesium, and anti-inflammatory properties may help support nerve function.
Sean’s Massage Center offers customized programs to help you manage nerve pain naturally and holistically. Call (614) 327-4338 today to learn how we can create a care plan tailored to your needs!
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing sudden, unexplained facial pain — especially if it’s frequent or worsening — don’t delay in seeking professional help. Early management can prevent the progression of symptoms.
At Sean’s Massage Center, we offer compassionate support and personalized techniques that align with your lifestyle and medical needs.
Ready to find relief? Call (614) 327-4338 today and take the first step toward a calmer, more comfortable life!
FAQs About Trigeminal Neuralgia
Common triggers include light touch, cold wind, eating, talking, and emotional stress. Managing these environmental factors can help reduce flare frequency.
While the condition can be chronic, many people experience periods of remission. With proper management, flare-ups can become less severe and less frequent.
Stress doesn’t cause the condition itself but can intensify symptoms and increase flare-up frequency.
Doctors typically diagnose trigeminal neuralgia through patient history, a physical exam, and sometimes imaging studies like MRIs to rule out other causes like tumors or MS.
It can, especially if untreated. However, proper pain management strategies can help control symptoms at any age.
Doctors often prescribe anti-seizure medications to calm nerve activity. Complementary care like craniosacral therapy, acupuncture, and relaxation techniques can also significantly improve symptoms.
Not usually directly, but dental procedures or trauma near the nerve can trigger symptoms if the nerve becomes irritated.
Avoid triggers (like cold drafts), manage stress, prioritize sleep, and use warm compresses to soothe facial muscles. Working with holistic care providers can also make a big difference.
Results vary based on the individual and severity. Some patients experience improvement after just a few sessions, while others need ongoing care for sustained relief.
At Sean’s Massage Center, we understand chronic pain and tailor every session to your unique experience. We work gently, safely, and compassionately to help you reclaim your life.
Don’t wait to start feeling better — call (614) 327-4338 today to schedule your consultation!
Conclusion
Living with trigeminal neuralgia can feel overwhelming, but understanding what causes trigeminal neuralgia and what triggers flare-ups gives you the power to manage it more effectively.
By addressing nerve compression, minimizing environmental triggers, reducing stress, and supporting your body naturally, you can reclaim your comfort and confidence.
At Sean’s Massage Center in Pickerington, Ohio, we are here to walk this journey with you. Our experienced team offers customized care options that blend relaxation, nerve support, and holistic healing.
Take control of your pain. Call (614) 327-4338 today and let’s start your journey toward relief together!
