MyMSTeam

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is actually quite common among people with MS — it's estimated to be about 400 times more common in the MS population than in the general public. So yes, many people with MS experience it, and you're definitely not alone.

TN causes significant facial pain due to pressure or damage to the Show Full Answer

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is actually quite common among people with MS — it's estimated to be about 400 times more common in the MS population than in the general public. So yes, many people with MS experience it, and you're definitely not alone.

TN causes significant facial pain due to pressure or damage to the trigeminal nerve, which branches throughout the face. The pain can range from brief, intense electric shock-like jolts to longer-lasting, widespread facial discomfort. Many MyMSTeam members have shared their experiences with TN. One MyMSTeam member described it as "truly the worst pain I have ever experienced," comparing it to a major earache combined with severe tooth pain. Another MyMSTeam member described it as feeling like "an electrical shock to the face."

In MS, TN is most often linked to demyelination — the damage to the protective coating around nerve fibers — which can cause lesions to form near the trigeminal nerve. The good news is there are several ways to manage TN. Here are some common treatment options:

- Medications such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), gabapentin, oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), pregabalin (Lyrica), or lamotrigine
- Muscle relaxants like baclofen, sometimes added to boost medication effectiveness
- Topical pain relievers — one MyMSTeam member found relief using Voltaren gel along their cheekbone
- Surgical options for more severe cases
- Talk therapy or psychotherapy to help manage the emotional toll of chronic pain

It's really important to work closely with your neurology team to find the right approach, especially to make sure TN treatments don't interfere with your MS treatments.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Are Trigeminal Neuralgia and MS Related?