Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition in which a person experiences intermittent shooting pains within the face. It occurs when there is a disruption of normal function in the trigeminal nerve, which sends electrical impulses of pain, pressure, temperature, and touch to the brain from the jaw, face, gums, and around the eyes. The disruption is caused by compression or damage to the trigeminal nerve, usually due to contact between the nerves and a nearby blood vessel. This contact places pressure upon the nerve, which leads to malfunction and pain.
In most cases, the disorder begins as short mild attacks. Over time, these attacks can last longer and become more frequent as well as becoming more painful. Though rare, the pressure may