DEFINITION

Neuralgia is pain caused by irritation of or damage to a nerve.

DESCRIPTION

There are several different types of Neuralgia, including occipital neuralgia (pain that occurs on one side of the base of the skull - caused by a pinched nerve); trigeminal neuralgia (pain in the face); glossopharyngeal neuralgia (pain at the back of the tongue, in the throat and in the ear) and postherpetic neuralgia (triggered by shingles).

CAUSE

Neuralgia may be caused by a number of factors including tooth decay, eye strain, shingles, poor diet, nose infections, exposure to damp or cold, pinched nerves which are the result of arthritis or injury.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

There are many different types of Neuralgia so the signs and symptoms differ depending on the location and the cause. - Occipital neuralgia - numbness, oain or tingling over half the base of the skull. - Trigeminal neuralgia - sudden, brief, severe pains in the face. The pain is more common on the right side of the face. - Glossopharyngeal neuralgia - sudden, brief, severe pains in the throat, ear and/or neck. - Postherpetic neuralgia - burning, aching pain or stabbing pain where an attack of shingles has previously occurred.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Neuralgia is a medical condition and requires diagnosis and treatment by a Doctor. Most Neuralgias are treated by finding the cause and removing the pressure or irritation on the nerve. Postherpetic neuralgia is often difficult to treat so ask your Doctor for the latest advice on treatment for this condition. Treatment may include the use of topical treatments (applied directly to the skin), pain relievers, TENS therapy and/or antidepressant medications Trigeminal and glossopharyngeal Neuralgia may require a range of treatments from anti-depressants to surgery so always seek the advice of your Doctor.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

Ask your pharmacist for advice. 1) Your Pharmacist may recommend some pain relievers. 2) If appropriate, begin a gentle stretching programme to relieve the pressure on the affected nerves. Always have your Doctor examine you before beginning a physical exercise Programme. Your Doctor may recommend physiotherapy or chiropractic treatment. 3) Ask about a vitamin B complex supplement if dietary intake is inadequate.

DIET HINTS