Pictured (left to right): Jessica pain free and Jessica suffering a pain attack.
Most attacks only occur for a few seconds or minutes, but Jessica has had to endure episodes lasting several days.
“Before I was referred to a neurologist I had a dreadful attack which left me bedridden for five days. Luckily I have a really supportive husband and family around me and I’m on much stronger medication now which is helping.
Trigeminal Neuralgia is where the blood vessels wrap around the trigeminal nerve in the brain. This compression causes great pain as the nerve is linked to your head and jaw.
“If the compression is at the top of the nerve it affects all three parts, which unfortunately is what doctors think I’ve got,” says Jessica.
In cases like Jessica’s there is no particular cause of the condition. However, some people find that dental treatment, operations, car accidents and any situation where your head takes a nasty bump can cause TN.
As the condition is so rare, doctors know very little about Trigeminal Neuralgia, which makes diagnosis very difficult. Pains in your ears and teeth are one of the first symptoms, but this could be down to a simple infection or dental problem.
“I was back and forth for two years – my GP kept thinking I just had an ear infection,” says Jessica.
Even simple things like cooking the dinner, going for a walk or doing the school run can be a challenge for Jessica.
“Opening the oven or freezer door and even putting on a t-shirt can cause an attack. I also need to wrap up like an Eskimo when taking my children to school as the wind in my face can cause the pain the flare up.
Jessica believes medical ID jewellery is crucial for conditions like TN as very little is known about the attacks and medication.
“Having an ID bracelet or necklace makes you feel safer when trying to live a normal life,” says Jessica.
Jessica’s children also know about her necklace and card, so they could tell someone if she were to have an attack when out and about.
“I would never expect my husband or children to remember all the medication I’m on, so at least if medical staff asked them, they could just say ‘it’s all on her card’.
“In my opinion medical ID is more than just a handy accessory, it’s fundamental if you want to live your life.