Problems with the nerves that control the face can not only cause pain but numbness and weakness as well. This can make eating and speaking difficult. It is always best to have the cause of nerve pain in the face properly diagnosed, as in some cases, it is a warning sign of a serious underlying disease. Once the cause is known, physical therapy, medications and, in some cases, surgery may help to resolve the symptoms.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a facial nerve disorder that causes severe pain usually felt in the nose, lips, eyes, forehead, jaw or ears. The pain is often described as electric or shocking. Its cause often remains unknown, but it can be from a trauma to the face or head, claims the Trigeminal Neuralgia Association. It tends to affect just one side of the face, but some patients experience symptoms on both sides. Treatment usually involves the use of anti-convulsant and anti-depressant drugs to help manage the pain. In some cases, surgery is required to take pressure off of the nerve.
Herpes Zoster Infection
A herpes zoster infection or shingles, occurs when the virus varicella that causes chickenpox, becomes reactivated in the body. It can affect any area, including the nerves in the face. This condition becomes more frequent in those over age 55. The risk also rises in individuals with diseases that affect the immune system. Shingles often travels along the route of a nerve, and it can cause burning pain along with a skin rash. It is especially dangerous if it spreads into the eye, as it fcan lead to a loss of vision, warns the American Academy of Family Physicians. There are various medications that can be used to control the symptoms until the condition resolves.
Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
While the exact cause of glossopharyngeal neuralgia is unknown, the symptoms may be caused by pressure on facial nerves from an artery. The glossopharyngeal nerve controls the muscles of the throat, and it relays information between the throat, tongue, tonsils and brain. This condition can cause severe pain at the back of the throat that may radiate to the ear. The pain may be triggered by chewing, swallowing, talking, coughing, or sneezing. Treatment involves medication and in some cases surgery to remove the pressure on the nerve.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetes that is not well controlled can lead to constant high levels of blood sugar. Over time this can cause damage to both blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, including the face. The nerves can become physically damaged or inflamed causing pain, numbness and weakness. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, when this affects the nerves of the face, it is called a focal neuropathy. Focal neuropathy is diagnosed when there is sudden weakness of one nerve or a group of nerves. In severe cases, it can lead to changes in vision and facial paralysis. The best bet is prevention by keeping blood sugar levels under control.
References
- Trigeminal Neuralgia Association: About Neuropathic Facial Pain and TN
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Management of Herpes Zoster (Shingles) and Postherpetic Neuralgia
- Merck: Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Diabetic Neuropathies: The Nerve Damage of Diabetes
