Trigeminal Neuralgia Support Group

Trigeminal neuralgia, or Tic Douloureux, is a neuropathic disorder of the trigeminal nerve that causes episodes of intense pain in the eyes, lips, nose, scalp, forehead, and jaw. Trigeminal neuralgia is considered by many to be among the most painful of conditions.

385 Members
1,603 Posts
0 Online
Brain & Nervous System
/ Trigeminal Neuralgia Support Group

Sleep...

deleted_user
deleted_user
Does anyone suffer the pain of TN just when laying down or sleeping?
deleted_user
deleted_user
I have TN 24/7. It's worse at night simply because my head is attached to my body, and putting pressure on my jaws (both sides = atypical TN) makes the pain much worse.

Do you not have any pain during the day? Maybe you have TMJ, rather than TN....just a thought. Not exactly "better".
deleted_user
deleted_user
My pain gets worse at night, my doc prescribed me amitriptyline, I take 150mg at night, 2 hours after taking it, I pass out and wake up the next morning with the TV still on. Better than roaming the house in the middle of the night.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I think most pain is worse at night. I have fibromyalgia as well as TN, and it seems so much worse at night as well.

Another thought: consider your pillow and blankets! I was reading how softer downy pillows aren't as good of a choice for people with TN. I agree. I switched to a firmer pillow and saw some improvement, but I may just be crazy. I'm sure you don't do this, but just in case: make sure you don't have blankets/sheets touching your face and you're not sleeping under a vent. Who knows what can trigger more pain, it isn't worth the risk.
deleted_user
deleted_user
strange - mine is better then...go figure
deleted_user
deleted_user
I've read it's people with "atypical TN" (me) who have pain at night too, and very often it is worse pain than during the day.

"Classic TN" tends to have no pain at night.

That's what I've read. I wonder if this is a true distinction.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Yes! I have tried different pillows- doesn't make a differece. I absolutly cannot lay on my right side-ouch! I have pain at random times during the day, but can count on having a hard time laying down! My jaws do something funky when I lay down too.
Jill
deleted_user
deleted_user
I sleep sitting up due to acid reflux so have to use a special pillow. I find that I need to sleep with my chin/jaw on top of the pillow or else I have problems.
Becky
deleted_user
deleted_user
Before diagnosis, I always wondered about pain coming at night and worse when I lay down.

I was a long while before I dared to sleep on my right side again, and I only dare do it when I know my Rx are at it's peak, like 1 hour or so after I take them. On bad days, there is no choice but to lay on the left side with my chin tucked into my chest.

Once I am asleep though, I have not been woken up by pain.
Posts You May Be Interested In
  • irishwriter

    come unwind in the bp lounge

    Posted by: irishwriter
    Last Reply: kisses2016
    7992
    theatre and I are there already. I'm having a very berry tea with crackers, cheese and cherry tomatoes and she's having a joint with some beer and we're both on really comfy recliners on thick pile carpet. we need some help with the decor if anyone is around??
  • Rizen

    Walk a Day

    Posted by: Rizen
    Last Reply: Secouya
    2624
    I'm trying to exercise daily. I was doing fairly well until I sprained my ankle 2 weeks ago but now I'm getting back on the horse. Today I walked over a mile with my arm weights that are about 22lbs total. I was out of shape and it was hard on my arms. I also did my 30 situps. I'm also going to drink a lot of water and try to eat healthy. I do tend to have a sweet tooth but I'm cutting...