What is the best treatment for trigeminal neuralgia in the elderly?

Apr 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Generally speaking, there is no definitive best treatment for trigeminal neuralgia in elderly individuals. Trigeminal neuralgia in the elderly may be caused by age-related degeneration, lack of sleep, malnutrition, sinusitis, anxiety, and other factors. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and follow the doctor's guidance to undergo general treatment, medication, and other treatment methods.

Generally speaking, there is no single best treatment method for trigeminal neuralgia in elderly individuals. This condition may be caused by age-related degeneration, insufficient sleep, malnutrition, sinusitis, anxiety disorders, and other factors. If the aforementioned situations occur, it is recommended to visit a regular hospital and follow a doctor's guidance to undergo general treatments, medication therapies, and other appropriate methods. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Age-related Degeneration

With advancing age, the trigeminal nerve and its surrounding tissues gradually undergo degenerative changes, leading to trigeminal neuralgia in elderly individuals. Daily massage for about one hour per day can help improve blood circulation and slow down the degenerative process.

2. Insufficient Sleep

Declining sleep quality and reduced sleep duration in elderly individuals can impair the rest and recovery of the nervous system. Long-term sleep deprivation may increase nerve sensitivity, making elderly individuals more prone to develop trigeminal neuralgia. It is important to improve the sleep environment and, when necessary, use sleep-aid medications.

3. Malnutrition

Malnutrition caused by improper diet, genetic factors, and other issues may lead to weakened digestive and absorptive functions in elderly individuals, making them prone to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, which can affect nerve function and subsequently cause trigeminal neuralgia. This condition is usually accompanied by symptoms such as pain. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications like Caltrate D tablets, fish oil soft capsules, and compound amino acid oral solution for treatment.

4. Sinusitis

Sinusitis can be triggered by infections, low immunity, and other factors. Infections in the facial or oral regions may spread to the trigeminal nerve, causing trigeminal neuralgia in elderly individuals. Symptoms such as pain and swelling may also be present. Patients may use medications such as Cefuroxime Axetil tablets, Amoxicillin capsules, and Azithromycin capsules under a doctor's guidance to alleviate symptoms.

5. Anxiety Disorders

Long-term mental stress or emotional fluctuations may lead to anxiety disorders, which can increase the excitability of the trigeminal nerve and trigger trigeminal neuralgia in elderly individuals. Symptoms such as tension and anxiety may occur. Patients can take medications such as Sertraline Hydrochloride tablets, Lorazepam tablets, and Alprazolam tablets under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

Elderly individuals should maintain healthy lifestyle habits, including balanced nutrition, sufficient sleep, moderate exercise, and emotional management, to support the health of the trigeminal nerve and the overall nervous system.

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