I am new to this group and seeking advice. I have had mouth/throat/neck pain since a bone biopsy 2 years ago. My family doctor prescribed Neurontin which has helped somewhat. I don't have a formal diagnosis. After reading the Fact Sheet from the Face Pain Info tab at the top of the page (which was extremely helpful), I think it is possible I have Facial Nerve Damage due to dental surgery or TN2. I would like to see one of the doctors on the recommended list to obtain a diagnosis and pursue treatment options but most of them are listed as neurosurgeons. This may be a dumb question, but do neurosurgeons diagnose as well as do surgery?
Hi Elsie,
Welcome to the group! This is a great place to get advice from all the wonderful members who are willing to share their experiences.
Many of us, like myself have been initially diagnosed by a neurologist, not a neurosurgeon. I did get a much more specific diagnosis by the neurosurgeon who did my MVD surgery, but my first step in treatmentwas with a neurologist. If possible, try to find one who treats TN patients. The first neurologist I saw was not really familiar with TN, and wasn’t helpful. I just started calling neurology practices until I found a doctor that was familiar with TN.
I am glad the neurontin is helping, but hope you find a doctor who will work with you to bring you better pain relief.
Best of luck
Christine
Hi Elsie! I am very sorry to know you are in so much pain. I went through the traditional process backwards so to speak, meaning I went to neurosurgeon first, was diagnosed TN2, discussed treatment options (GAMMA knife) and then went to the neurologist.
My PCP knew I was so burned out on medical stuff that I might not make it to the treatment phase meaning I would not do anything about it. Like many others here I have many medical diagnonis and she knew that I was more than exhausted. I am very glad I met with both.
A neurosurgeon can diagnose absolufely. A neurologist usually will diagnose and then refer you on to neurosurgery. Neurologists often manage medications as well. This is not black and white though. It could also depend on your insurance and primary care Docs recomendations.
I am new to TN and to this website so somone with more experience will probably come alonh with some ideas. The folks here have many tricks up their sleeves.
Hang in there. No two situations are exactly the same but that does not mean help is not available. Trial and error is familiar to many here.
Thank you Christine and Moxie. I will call the doctors on the recommended list (Doctors tab) even if they are neurosurgeons and not neurologists and ask to schedule an appointment. If I need a referral, my family doctor will provide that I think. I appreciate the advice and the warm welcome.
You are very welcome and good luck! Keep us posted as to how things are going for you!
Peace......
Elsie said:
Thank you Christine and Moxie. I will call the doctors on the recommended list (Doctors tab) even if they are neurosurgeons and not neurologists and ask to schedule an appointment. If I need a referral, my family doctor will provide that I think. I appreciate the advice and the warm welcome.