The Triggers of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a severe neurological condition that causes sudden, electric shock-like facial pain. In this video, we explain the most common trigeminal neuralgia triggers, including brushing teeth, eating, talking, light touch, cold wind, vibration, stress, and why attacks can sometimes happen with no obvious trigger.

Triggers do not cause trigeminal neuralgia, but they can provoke attacks in people living with the condition. Many everyday actions, even gentle ones, can activate the trigeminal nerve and lead to severe facial pain. This video helps explain what is happening and why these triggers matter.

Presented by Aneeta Prem MBE, CEO of the Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK (TNFP), and someone living with trigeminal neuralgia herself. This video reflects lived experience, patient evidence, and clinically informed understanding of trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain.

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Quick Answers About Trigeminal Neuralgia

What does TN mean?

In this context, TN means trigeminal neuralgia, a facial pain condition involving the trigeminal nerve.

What is trigeminal neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that causes sudden, severe facial pain involving the trigeminal nerve. Pain is commonly described as sharp, shooting or electric-shock-like and often occurs in short attacks.

What can trigger trigeminal neuralgia?

Triggers differ between people. Actions or sensations such as talking, chewing, brushing the teeth, washing or lightly touching the face, shaving, wind or cool air can trigger attacks for some people. Pain can also occur without an obvious trigger.

What does trigeminal neuralgia pain feel like?

TN often causes sudden attacks of severe facial pain that may feel sharp, shooting or like an electric shock. Individual experiences vary.

Can trigeminal neuralgia feel like toothache?

TN pain can be felt around the teeth, jaw or gums, which can make dental causes an important part of the initial assessment. Facial or dental pain should be properly assessed because several conditions can cause similar symptoms.

Why does Show TN use three fingers?

The three-finger gesture represents the three main divisions of the trigeminal nerve: V1, V2 and V3. The campaign then invites people affected by TN to share three things that trigger or worsen their own pain.

Where can I get support for trigeminal neuralgia?

TNA UK provides information and support for people affected by trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain, including its helpline, e-help service, support groups and other resources.

Get Support

TNA UK provides information and support for people affected by trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain. Explore related guidance below, or get in touch directly.