You have one trigeminal nerve on each side of your face.
The trigeminal nerve is most commonly associated withtrigeminal neuralgia, a condition characterized by severe facial pain.
The right and left trigeminal nerves each provideipsilateral(same side) motor innervation and receive ipsilateral sensory input.
The function of the right and left trigeminal nerves is symmetrical.
It then sends signals down to the pons in the brainstem.
These commands are then carried out by the motor branch of the trigeminal nerve which controls chewing.
The trigeminal nerve is composed of several main branches, which include a motor nerve and three sensory nerves.
The trigeminal ganglion is located on the inside of the skull in front of your ear near your temple.
All 12 cranial nerves (12 in each side) emerge from the brainstem.
Branches
The branches of the trigeminal nerves travel along the pathways listed below.
Ophthalmic
The frontal nerve, the lacrimal nerve, and the nasociliary nerves converge in the ophthalmic nerve.
The region of the face that transmits sensation through the ophthalmic nerve is described as V1.
Maxillary
There are 14 small sensory nerves that converge to form the maxillary nerve.
The maxillary nerve enters into the skull through an opening called theforamen rotundum.
The mandibular nerve detects sensation in the lower part of the face, an area described as V3.
Associated Conditions
A condition called trigeminal neuralgia is the most common problem associated with the trigeminal nerve.
There are also several other medical problems that can involve the trigeminal nerve or its branches.
This condition often causes pain that is severe in intensity.
Medications used for pain management include antidepressants and anticonvulsants, both of which are frequently used for nerve pain.
Surgical transection (cutting) of the nerve is an option when pain is persistent despite medical therapy.
Head Trauma
A traumatic injury can cause damage to the trigeminal nerve.
Symptoms correspond to the affected branch.
Rehabilitation
Recovery and treatment of trigeminal nerve disease or injury depend on the condition itself.
Managing the cause can help hasten recovery and prevent permanent nerve damage.
Techniques aimed at rehabilitation of damaged trigeminal nerves have not usually been found successful.
Damage to the nerve may cause pain, numbness, loss of sensation, or weakness.
There are no specific care instructions for the trigeminal nerve.
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