Neuralgia

Neuralgia, dull, aching, or even sharp, intermittent or constant pain along a nerve trunk or its branches. The manifold types of neuralgia are distinguished according to the nerve affected or to the underlying cause. The pain may be caused by a virus that attacks the nerve, as in the case of herpes zoster (shingles); it may be the result of toxic conditions such as alcohol or lead poisoning; it may be associated with localized infections of the teeth, ears, tonsils, or sinuses; or it may result from injury, vitamin deficiency, or pressure on the nerve. Among the common forms of neuralgia are trigeminal neuralgia (also known as tic douloureux) and sciatic neuralgia. Treatment is mainly palliative, with use of medications to control pain and often the administration of vitamin B₁₂ or B complex. In tic douloureux, an often recurrent neuralgia, surgery is sometimes of benefit.