Neuralgia

If you are experiencing an intense, shooting, or stabbing pain, you may be suffering from neuralgia. Neuralgia is caused by a damaged, compressed or irritated nerve. Dr. Elenbaas and her team have many years of experience and expertise in treating neuralgia and are now seeing patients at their office in Gulfport. Call or use the online booking tool to make an appointment today.

What is neuralgia?

Neuralgia or nerve pain refers to the intense, shooting, or stabbing pain that occurs because of a damaged or irritated nerve that can occur anywhere in the body. While neuralgia is more common in older people, it can develop at any age.

The most common types of neuralgia include:

• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Postherpetic neuralgia
• Occipital neuralgia
• Nervus intermedius or geniculate neuralgia

Less common neuralgia can also affect the glossopharyngeal nerve, which is related to feelings in your throat, or auriculotemporal neuralgia, which affects the area in front of your ear and temple region. 

What are the symptoms of neuralgia?

Symptoms of neuralgia vary based on its type, location, and severity. The primary symptom includes an intense, electric, sharp, and shooting pain that typically lasts for seconds. The pain may repeat over minutes, hours, or days.

Some people may also experience tingling, burning, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. In most neuralgias, the pain usually affects one side of the face, neck, or body.

What causes neuralgia?

Causes of neuralgia include nerve damage or irritation due to various factors, such as:

• Viral infections
• Injuries
• Tumors
• Diabetes
• Multiple sclerosis
• Nerve compression

It can also be caused by other underlying medical conditions. Certain lifestyle habits can also increase your risk for neuralgia, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and extreme stress.

How is neuralgia treated?

At Remedy Clinic, your treatment of neuralgia depends on the underlying cause and severity of the pain. Medications such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and neuropathic pain medicines are commonly used to manage your symptoms. Dr. Elenbaas may recommend nerve blocks or intraoral medication stints if applicable.  

Additionally, radiofrequency ablation or surgical procedures may be recommended to reduce your pain and improve nerve function.

Lifestyle changes can also help manage neuralgia symptoms. You can significantly reduce pain levels by eating a balanced diet, engaging in moderate exercise, reducing stress levels, and avoiding triggers like exposure to touch in the area or cold temperatures. If it’s caused by a virus, antiviral medication may be recommended.

If you have symptoms of neuralgia, reach out to Remedy Clinic today by phone or book an appointment online.