Glossopharyngeal neuralgia

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• Q
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Glossopharyngeal neuralgia

Cranial mononeuropathy IX

Treatment is aimed at controlling pain. Unfortunately, over-the-counter pain killers such as aspirin and acetaminophen are not very effective for the relief of neuralgia. The most effective drugs are actually anti-seizure medications, like carbamazepine, gabapentin, and phenytoin. Some anti-depressants like amitriptyline are sometimes tried with variable degrees of success.

In severe cases, when pain is difficult to treat, surgery aiming at decompressing the glossopharyngeal nerve may be required. This surgery is generally considered effective. If a cause of the neuralgia is identified, the treatment of choice is the control of the underlying problem.

Prognosis depends on the underlying cause and the effectiveness of initial treatment. Surgery is considered effective for cases that do not benefit from medications.

Decreased pulse and fainting may occur when pain is severe. Side-effects of medications may complicate treatment.

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms suggestive of glossopharyngeal neuralgia. See a pain specialist if pain is severe to be sure that all options for controlling pain are available to you.

Review Date: 09/25/2006
Reviewed By: Kenneth Gross, M.D., Neurology, North Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.