I go back to my conversation with my dentist who seemed reluctant at the time to give me a diagnosis for my presenting symptoms. He simply told me to eat soft food.

Trigeminal Neuralgia pain ?

I live with pain in my left temple, and a permanent headache. Currently, the pain travels down my face (left cerebral palsy) side. Biting, chewing, drinking hot and cold drinks, spicy and/or hot and cold food can bring on the pain. Sweets and chocolate can also bring on the pain.

Initially, I started with a hot and cold compress, but didn’t know or understand my symptom enough to realise I was making the pain worse. I now understand that was the wrong thing to do. Where a hot and/or cold compress can help symptoms for TMJ, it can actually make trigeminal neuralgia worse.

Trigeminal Neuralgia and TMJ are different

For those who live with trigeminal neuralgia, the pain is completely different to TMJ. I have neuralgia pain.

When it comes to any form of neuralgia, the herbal route can only help temporarily unless you understand the cause, so I am having to resort to paracetamol, but I am trying to limit how much I take. The herbs I take highlight support nerve health, and can reduce inflammation, so for anyone who is dealing with the condition, it may be worth a try.

I routinely take: (in no specific order)

A Vitamin C and an Omega 3 supplement
A Vitamin D and Vitamin K
Myelin Sheath support supplement (includes vitamin B12)
Neurology Oil that includes four homeopathic remedies
Topical Peppermint Oil

I also take Folic Acid, Vitamin E and use infrared treatment and am going to try magnesium, which is good for nerve health. If you are taking a multi, please make sure you're not taking too much vitamin B12, because vitamin B12 is included in the myelin sheath support. Vitamin B12 is also found in certain foods, so if you prefer you can source vitamin B12 from a dietary source.

Herbs to try:

Rosemary,
Ashwagandha
Meadowsweet
Cayenne Pepper
Capsaicin and Turmeric

Herbs also help reduce inflammation and in many cases act as a distalgesic. Always check with a herbalist on how to apply. Herbs can cause side effects. Start small and increase.

Fresh Juice of carrot and avocado also supports the myelin nerve. (Source: herbalcareproducts)

Conclusion

It's always comforting to know there are supplements and foods that help support health. With neuralgia it's a long road back to health. It's yet another challenge to deal with. It's not something I need right now.