Hi, Everyone! I’m new to this website. It’s comforting to see all of the people who also suffer from TN. Sometimes I feel like I’m the only one because no one I know has ever heard of it and I feel like people think I’m crazy or faking it. I was diagnosed six years ago and my TN is progressing. So far I have only been treated with meds, all the standard TN meds and every mixture of meds. I feel that I’m at the point to do some kind of other intervention, but not sure what would be best. Injections, gamma knife, surgery? I am 40 years old and healthy otherwise. I need advice from those of you who have been there. Thanks so much. 
Eileen,
Mind that this advice is coming from a predominately Atypical TN patient, and we have low success rates with surgical help such as MVD, Gamma Knife, etc. It's harder to treat.
Like you, I am a long-time sufferer. I was misdiagnosed with TMJ in '03. Finally, in '09, I know I have an accurate diagnosis. I would offer the advice of finding a good, reputable pain clinic, not a so called "pill mill", but a doctor, or group of doctors who offer a multi-disciplinary approach to pain treatment.
For what it's worth, that would be my best advice. I was at the end of my ropes whenever I was referred to a Pain Clinic by my General Practitioner. I would ask my Neuro for a referral. His job is to treat the problem. Pain Management specialists' jobs are to treat your symptoms, ie. pain.
Best wishes in finding compassionate care!
Stef
Stef, thank you. Your advice for finding a pain clinic is interesting. I never thought of that, believe it or not, and, I think I will give that a shot next. I’ve been on meds for so long, I’m afraid of what they are doing to my insides.
Great question. Way to reach out to folks, it’s the fastest way to make friends and get good info.
Also remember that no one here is a doctor, so make sure you consult your doctor on any advice you receive.