Glossopharyngeal neuralgia is a rare facial pain condition most common in men over 50. Like some facial pain conditions, this can also be caused by compressed blood vessels on the glossopharyngeal nerve.
Symptoms
Though symptoms may vary in severity, the most common symptoms of glossopharyngeal neuralgia are:
- Intraoral, deep throat pain and sometimes ear pain on one side of the face or, in some cases, both
- Frequency is often brief and intermittent
- Pain is severe and described as an electrical shock that can be worsened with swallowing or talking
- In some cases, the condition may also be associated with fainting
These symptoms are sometimes triggered or worsened by outside circumstances, particularly swallowing, talking, or drinking.
Diagnosis
A neurologist may diagnose glossopharyngeal neuralgia after a physical examination of the face. They may also take your medical history and details of your symptoms, characteristics, and timeline.
If you or a loved one believes they are experiencing any symptoms associated with intraoral or deep throat pain, visit a doctor for an initial consultation. From here, you may be referred to a neurologist who can best diagnose and treat your pain.
Treatment
Typically, over-the-counter pain and even prescription pain medications do not help to alleviate the pain of glossopharyngeal neuralgia. In that case, a doctor may prescribe:
- Anticonvulsant medications
- Antidepressants
- Surgery, if medication fails