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Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia: Signs of Attack, Alternative Treatment, Coping Tips

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Are you suffering from Tic douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)? You must be surely looking out for ways to deal with it in a better way. Tic Douloureux, commonly called Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN), is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal branch of facial nerve. This is a neuropathic form of pain which means, it is related to nerve condition.

While the typical or classic form (TN1) presents sudden shock like burning facial pain that lasts for few seconds to minutes, an atypical form (TN2) presents with constant aching of low intensity, but annoying enough to bother you. Medicines and other procedures have been found to be of great use in this condition and more research is on its way.

Signs of An Attack of Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)

It is important that you and your caregiver get acquainted with the signs of an attack of a patient suffering from Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia. Some of the common signs that a patient may experience in an attack are:

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Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia
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  • A physical jerk
  • Sudden immobility or silence
  • Involuntary facial twitches
  • A sudden shout of pain

Alternative Treatment For Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)

You may find it difficult to cope with the pain and its interference with the day to day activities. Be well informed about your condition and bear a positive mind; nothing is impossible. You can surely find out ways to manage your pain and deal with your condition in a better way.

Diet Therapy To Manage Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)

One of the studies suggested that Low Saturated Fat Diet (LSFD) can be an effective and comparatively quicker way of treating Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia. This method showed to have higher compliance rate with no adverse effects. Low Saturated Fat Diet (LSFD) could be supporting the reduction of inflammation and improvement of cell function.

According to Low Saturated Fat Diet (LSFD):

Foods to Avoid – Butter, cream, cheese, bacon, full fat ice cream or yogurt, pastries, pizza, nuts, coconut, avocado, margarine, soft candy, gravies and sauces.

Foods With Minimal Saturated Fat – poultry without skin, fish, fat free dairy products, soy cheese Canadian bacon, spaghetti, beans, corn flakes, oatmeal, fat free puddings, gelatin deserts, low fat salad dressing and Canola oil.

Some Foods Identified As Trigger Foods – Tomatoes, citrus fruits, pickles, tea, coffee, sugar, salt, pepper artificial sweeteners, spices, hot sauce and cocoa.

Acupuncture For Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)

Acupuncture is an alternative medicine modality that has proved to be successful in treating various chronic conditions. It provides relief in pain and the pain lowering effects are probably due to increased levels of endorphin and other similar substances.

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Scientific studies have reported acupuncture as a safe procedure with minimal side effects like bruising and local infection at the needle site or metal allergy in few patients. It is found to be beneficial in patients with resistant Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia who have not responded to other conventional treatment.

Homeopathic Treatment For Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)

Homeopathy offers excellent remedies for neuralgic pain and nerve related symptoms. The remedy that best suits you depends upon your constitution and is decided after a thorough case taking.

  • Mag Phos – Pain better by warm applications
  • Kali Phos – Pain better by cold applications
  • Spigelia – Pain with headache, more on right side, worse from touch
  • Chamomila – Pain with numbness and increased sensitivity
  • Hypericum – Pain after an injury

Some complementary and alternative therapies offer a wide range treatment options for various chronic conditions. It is advisable to consult the concerned expert for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Tips To Cope With Tic Douloureux or Trigeminal Neuralgia

  • Rest and Sleep: Take it easy – take adequate rest and a good night’s sleep.
  • Avoid Stress: Avoid stressful activities and situations as it can be a potential trigger.
  • Practice meditation, deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques. Seek help from a counselor or psychotherapist for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
  • Ice and Heat: Apply ice packs to the painful area – it produces numbness and reduces pain and inflammation. Applying warm compresses to the surrounding area can help to relax the muscles and improve blood flow.
  • Lifestyle Modification: Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle. Plan a health program that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise and remain active within your limits. Make sure you are well hydrated and maintain an electrolyte balance. Take plenty of water and fluids that suit your health. Consider using toothpaste, which is recommended for sensitive teeth, as it helps in relieving pain from increased sensitivity.
  • If chewing triggers your pain, you may begin to avoid chewing and eating. You can try simplifying your chewing act by increasing intake of soft blended foods, nutritious drinks, soups and juices. Maintain a daily intake of essential nutrients from your diet or consider nutritional supplementation. Avoid sudden contrast of hot and cold foods and drinks.

Help yourself by keeping fit and being engaged in something that you enjoy. Keep yourself abreast with the latest developments regarding your condition.

Also Read:

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Dr. Snehal Singh
Dr. Snehal Singh
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Last Modified On:December 11, 2018

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