Nerwoból

Nerwoból, or neuralgia, is a type of neuropathic pain characterized by intense, often stabbing or burning pain along the distribution of a nerve. It is a symptom that may accompany various conditions and can be persistent or episodic. The pain is frequently triggered by light touch, movement, or temperature changes, and may be accompanied by numbness or tingling.

Common neuralgias include trigeminal neuralgia, which causes facial pain along the trigeminal nerve, and postherpetic neuralgia, the persistent nerve pain following shingles. Other forms affect the neck, back, limbs, or scalp, such as occipital or glossopharyngeal neuralgia. Causes range from nerve compression and inflammation to nerve injury, metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes), infections (herpes zoster), autoimmune diseases, or multiple sclerosis; in some cases the cause is unknown (idiopathic).

Diagnosis is based on clinical history and neurological examination, with imaging, usually MRI, to identify structural causes. Blood tests may assess diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, or inflammatory conditions. Nerve conduction studies or quantitative sensory testing can be useful in selected cases.

Treatment aims to reduce pain and improve function and depends on the underlying cause. Pharmacologic options include anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin), antidepressants (amitriptyline, duloxetine), and topical agents such as lidocaine or capsaicin. For trigeminal neuralgia, carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine is often first line. In refractory cases, interventional procedures (nerve blocks, botulinum toxin injections) or surgical options (microvascular decompression, stereotactic radiosurgery) may be considered. Addressing contributing conditions and rehabilitation are important aspects of care.

Prognosis varies by type and cause; some neuralgias respond to treatment, others are chronic. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management can improve outcomes.