Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
Glossopharyngeal neuralgia is a condition characterized by recurring episodes of severe pain in the tongue, throat, ear, and area near the tonsils. The painful episodes may last from a few seconds to few minutes.
Glossopharyngeal neuralgia is a rare disorder. It usually begins after the age of 40, and is more common in men. The symptoms include severe pain in areas connected to the ninth cranial nerve (glossopharyngeal nerve). These areas include the back of the throat, tonsillar region, the back third of the tongue, back of the nose, larynx, and the ear.
Although brief and intermittent, the attacks cause excruciating pain. The attacks are sometimes be triggered by a particular action, such as chewing, swallowing, speaking, coughing, or sneezing.
Causes of Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
Glossopharyngeal neuralgia is believed to be caused by irritation of the ninth cranial nerve. In some cases, the source of irritation is never found. Some possible causes for glossopharyngeal neuralgia are:
- Blood vessels pressing down on the glossopharyngeal nerve
- Growths or lesions at the base of the skull
- Tumors or infections of the throat and mouth
A variety of tests may be performed to identify problems. The test may include MRI’s, CT Scans, or X-rays.
When pain results from an abnormally positioned artery pressing on a cranial nerve, the pain can be relieved by a surgical procedure called microvascular decompression.
Although drugs are sometimes effective in treatment, surgery may be required for permanent relief from the pain. Surgery is considered effective for cases that do not benefit from medications.
Learn more about glossopharyngeal neuralgia at the European Neurology Journal.
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