What condition is characterized by facial pain in the distribution of the trigeminal nerve?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that causes severe, sharp, shooting facial pain along the distribution of the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face. This pain can be triggered by everyday activities, such as eating, talking, or even touching the face. The episodes of pain are usually brief but intense and can significantly affect a person's quality of life.

The characteristics of trigeminal neuralgia, including the specific distribution of pain along the trigeminal nerve branches (ophthalmic, maxillary, and mandibular), distinguish it from other headaches and facial pain conditions. The nature of the pain in trigeminal neuralgia is typically sudden and can feel like an electric shock, contrasting with the more diffuse and aching pain often associated with conditions like cluster headaches or migraines. In contrast, temporomandibular joint disorders may cause pain but are associated with jaw movement and are not limited to the trigeminal nerve distribution.