Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a facial pain disorder characterized primarily by sudden, severe facial pain, typically within the distribution area of the trigeminal nerve, such as around the eye socket, cheeks, and jaw. This pain can be brief and intense like an electric shock, or it may last from several seconds to minutes. The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia can sometimes be difficult to determine, but the following are some common causes:

1. Vascular compression: This is the most common cause. When a blood vessel compresses the root of the trigeminal nerve, it may damage the nerve's myelin sheath, leading to abnormal transmission of pain signals.

2. Multiple sclerosis: This is an autoimmune disease that causes damage to the myelin sheaths of the nervous system, including the trigeminal nerve, resulting in pain.

3. Trauma or surgery: Trauma to the face or head, or surgical procedures involving the trigeminal nerve, can cause nerve damage and subsequent pain.

4. Infection: Certain viral infections, such as herpes zoster, can affect the trigeminal nerve and cause pain.

In addition, trigeminal neuralgia is broadly classified into two types: classical trigeminal neuralgia and secondary trigeminal neuralgia. Classical trigeminal neuralgia is the most common type encountered in clinical practice. Its exact cause is not fully understood, but it is generally believed to be related to vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve. Secondary trigeminal neuralgia is usually caused by various lesions in the trigeminal nerve system or adjacent areas, such as intracranial and skull base tumors, vascular malformations, thickened arachnoid adhesions, and multiple sclerosis.