Glossofaringeal neuralgia is a rare disorder, with recurrent attacks of severe pain in the back of the throat near the tonsils, which is sometimes the ear on the same side.
Trigeminal neuralgia usually starts at the age of 40 years and is more common in men.
CAUSE
The cause is unknown.
SYMPTOMS
Intermittent pain attacks and short, but it causes tremendous pain and can be triggered by certain activities, such as chewing, swallowing, speaking or yawning.
Pain may last for a few seconds to several minutes and usually only on one side.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis based on symptoms.
TREATMENT
Given drug is carbamazepine, phenytoin, baclofen and anti-depressants.
If drugs fail to reduce symptoms, surgery may be necessary to block or cut glossofaringeal nerve in the neck or at the base of the brain.
