I am beginning to have pain on the left side of my face now. I have a very tender temple and have had headache on that side since yesterday morning. I’ve been noticing this coming on for over a week, but kept telling myself that I was being a hypochondriac and just overly sensitive. But when I started having frank temple and upper cheek pain yesterday, I had to consider that I may be having this on both sides. I didn’t think this was very common.
I have been on Neurontin in the past for my legs as I have peripheral neuropathy, but have not had to be on it for years. I am so frustrated because every time I start on a serious diet, I end up on some medication like prednisone that causes weight gain. I’ve been reading the side effects of Tegretol and worry about the memory issues. I am being considered for a good job that has a very fast pace and I don’t want to lose that opportunity.
I am just in pain and discouraged today.
Barb
So sorry Barb,
but don't panic yet. I have had occasions where it hurt on both sides, but it didn't become a permanent thing. One time I found out it was a sinus infection, which I would have never guessed it to cause temple and jaw and TN pain. Sometimes if you massage the jaw joint on the new side, it eases up some. This discussion might give you some tips to try before trying more meds. http://www.livingwithtn.org/forum/topics/share-your-little-helps-with
There will be better days!
Sheila
Barbara,
I've had Atypical TN on both side (called bilateral) for several years now. It is reported to be rare, but since I've joined this group it seems to be less rare than I thought. There's even a Bilateral group here that you can join, make friends with and talk to others with the same problem.
When I have it on both sides it doesn't last very long. Sometimes on both sides and then sometimes it switches sides for a short time. Please don't be too alarmed. It may settle down shortly.
Hugs,
Gloria
Thank you both for your insight and empathy. I am feeling better tonight. I find with atypical it comes and goes like a whim. Yesterday I felt bad and was in charge of the hospitality for an event at our church last night and by the end of the evening I couldn’t help but cry from the pain. I spent the entire day today on the couch with a heating pad on my face. Tonight though, it eased up and just feels like a dull pain that is manageable. Why is it that before it was months or years between the burning I would have on my face and now the pain is almost daily? I’m still trying to learn about this and be educated. I will definitely be checking out both links that you all shared. I so appreciate that!
Barb
Hi, Barbara. I'm so sorry that you are experiencing new pain. I know how frightening that is as my pain keeps expanding its reach, too. I even get what you mean about the meds, the weight gain, and the memory issues. I'm with you right down to the Prednisone--I have a love-hate relationship with that drug! It's easy to feel out of control, isn't it? Unfortunately, we'll just have to see how all of this plays out. Hang in there, friend. We're all in this together. : )
Christi